“Are you seriously agreeing to be my relative?” Kathleen was startled.
Samuel’s lips curled. “Yes.”
A deep line appeared in the middle of Kathleen’s brow. “You won’t do things that I hate? For example, kiss me or flirt with me without warning?” she asked doubtfully.
“No,” Samuel responded with a shake of his head.
“All right.” Kathleen paused. “I’ll give you one last chance.”
Chuckling deeply, Samuel spread his arms wide.
Kathleen hesitated before wrapping her arms around him.
Samuel felt his heart clenching up as a lone tear dropped down his cheek and disappeared underneath Kathleen’s collar.
She’s so soft and fits right into my arms perfectly. Alas, this will be the last time we’ll ever hug each other.
Kathleen had no idea why her heart was aching.
A year had since passed, but the pain still remained.
“From now on, we’ll be a family. If you need help, just let me know. I’ll try my best to help,” Samuel rasped. “I promise no one will dare to lay a hand on you in Jadeborough.”
“Mm.” Kathleen bobbed her head.
His lips curled up, Samuel added, “One more thing. I hope you’ll say yes to my request.”
“Say it,” Kathleen urged.
“Please don’t show your affection for Christopher in front of me. I might’ve agreed to be your family, but that doesn’t mean I can accept your relationship. Do you understand?” Samuel stated.
“Okay.” Kathleen nodded.
I won’t be affectionate with Christopher in public, anyway.
“I can’t bring myself to release you,” Samuel grunted. “If I let go, you’ll no longer belong to me.”
Something told him he would forever be her family.
Kathleen hesitated. “I’ll let you hug me for ten seconds longer.”
Samuel snickered and commented, “How kind of you.”
“Release me then,” Kathleen hissed with her brows furrowed up.
“No!” Samuel tightened his grip. “I earned the ten seconds myself.”
Kathleen let out a light snort.
Ten seconds later, Samuel released her reluctantly. He placed his hand on her head and said, “Let’s get along well, Kate.”
Kathleen was dumbfounded.
Samuel let out a low chuckle. “What did you bring?”
He must’ve faked that tear! I felt bad for him, but he started joking again. Never mind. If he dares to go against his word, I shall cut off all ties with him!
“Quinoa salad.” Kathleen placed the takeaway food in front of him. “It’s still piping hot, so eat up. I shall take my leave now.”
“Did you drive here?” Samuel inquired.
“I’ll get a taxi,” Kathleen answered.
“I’ll give you a ride.” Samuel got to his feet. “I’ll eat this at home.”
“No need for that. It’s just ten o’clock.” Kathleen raised her hand to glance at her Patek Philippe watch. “You don’t have to give me a ride home.”
Samuel put on his coat. “I insist. Did you forget what I said? I said I won’t let you run into danger ever again.”
Every time he recalled how she had nearly lost her life after he abandoned her on the street, he would have to resist the urge to slap himself twice.
Kathleen bit her lip. “All right.”
She had stopped recalling the matter.
Samuel drove a Maybach, and it was the first time Kathleen had ever driven it.
Sensing her anxiety, Samuel chuckled. “Drive slowly. It’s fine. I can eat the quinoa salad in the car.”
“Stop mocking me.” Kathleen clenched her jaw. “I can drive a Bentley, let alone this car. Eat your food.”
“Okay.” Grinning, Samuel started eating his supper slowly.
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