Departure with a Belly (Alaric and Victoria) novel Chapter 601

Chapter 601 You’re Taking Advantage of Me Again 

On the other hand, Victoria decided it wasn’t such a bad idea after hearing Alaric’s suggestion. It stands to reason that a man’s observations of another man will be more reliable than those of a woman. After all, they share a similar mindset and can relate in various ways. “Alright. You watch Erik for me, but you have to promise to keep watch of him seriously and not just brush it off.” 

Faced with the request from his beloved woman, he had no way to refuse. “Okay,” he replied lazily. He never expected that in his lifetime, he would have to observe another man closely, all because of his wife’s request. 

When they approached Summer and Erik, the two of them quickly pulled away from each other’s embrace due 

to the presence of the elderly. 

Since they had met before, Summer greeted Alaric’s parents before handing gifts to their family. 

“Thank you, Miss Jones.” 

Meanwhile, Nicole and Nathan were close to Summer because they had previously spent many years together. The children considered her their next closest relative after their immediate family. When the children received the gifts, they did not hesitate to express their gratitude, and after saying “thank you,” they planted gentle 

kisses on her cheek. 

At this moment, Nicole looked up at the man behind Summer, her eyes bright and curious as she asked 

proactively, “Who’s that man, Miss Jones?” 

At the mention of Erik, a rosy hue immediately spread across Summer’s cheeks. “He… He’s a friend of mine. You 

can call him Mr. Ludson.” 

Nicole, seemingly unaware of the explanation, suddenly asked, “Is he your boyfriend?” 

The term “boyfriend” caused Summer’s expression to change instantly. She was about to deny it when he replied with a light chuckle, “We’re not at that stage yet for now, little girl. I’m still working on it.” 

After hearing his explanation, the elders suddenly realized the situation. 

In fact, Alaric’s parents were acquainted with Erik. They were all part of the same social circle, and even if they hadn’t had the opportunity to collaborate, they had crossed paths before. When Summer and Erik showed up together, a vague suspicion arose in the elder’s minds, but they didn’t inquire about it proactively. 

However, after hearing Erik’s explanation, Mary instantly understood the situation and smiled. “I see. I was considering being a matchmaker for Summer, but it now appears unnecessary. Good things are also on the horizon for this young lady.” 

“Mrs. Cadogan-” 

“Alright, I will stop teasing you two. You young people must have a lot to talk about. Let us take the children. home first while you hang out, yeah?” 

Summer had a lot to tell Victoria, but she shook her head as she realized how late it was. So, she stated, “Don’t worry about it, Mrs. Cadogan. We’re here to pick you guys anyway. You guys should head back and rest. It’s getting late now. We can always talk tomorrow.” 

After hearing this, Mary suggested, “If you don’t mind, why don’t you come back with us?” 

Um…” Summer initially didn’t mind, as she had previously stayed at their house, but she wasn’t alone this time since Erik was with her. Hence, she turned to look at him. 

“I think it wouldn’t be appropriate to intrude without prior notice. Summer and I will just check into a hotel nearby,” he responded. 

Still, Mary couldn’t help but say, “Silly child. Could a hotel be as comfortable as home? No matter how clean and hygienic a hotel is, it can’t compare to the cleanliness and comfort of home.” Seeing that he remained unmoved, she continued, “Are you possibly looking down on Cadogan Group? Is that why you don’t want to stay over?” 

This statement carried significant weight, and it was evident that she wasn’t simply extending an invitation out of politeness but genuinely wanted them to stay at their home. Now that she had spoken to that extent, how 

could he refuse? 

Ultimately, Erik nodded politely and bowed to them slightly. “I hope we don’t interrupt, Mr. and Mrs. Cadogan. 

“Of course, you won’t! Now, come on!” 

With that, Erik and Summer followed the group back to their car. 

As they drove behind Victoria’s family, Summer couldn’t help but comment, “I thought you wouldn’t agree to go.” 

Erik’s lips curled slightly, and he uttered, “I feel like this is a relationship that will continue in the long term, so it’d be good to hang out with them now.” 

However, she didn’t catch the underlying meaning in his words and asked instinctively, “Does your company have any cooperation with Cadogan Group?” 

“Not at the moment.” 

“Then, what-” As soon as she realized something, Summer pulled a face and bit her lip. “You’re taking 

advantage of me again.” 

After hearing this, Erik arched his brow. “When did I do that? Also, what do you mean by that? I haven’t even done anything to you yet.” 

“Well, your actions may not have affected me, but doesn’t taking advantage verbally count?” 

“That’s not practical, so it doesn’t count.” 

‘Tsk, how come it doesn’t count?” Summer muttered under her breath. 

At this point, Erik changed the topic. “They seem to treat you well.” 

“Yes, because I often went to their house with Victoria as a child. They all know me.” While saying this, Summer had a flash of insight and asked, “How was your childhood?” 

After asking the question, she discreetly glanced at Erik, hoping she could make out any other emotions on his face.