The next morning, the skies were clear and bright. Jasper stood on tiptoes, peering into the distance with a puzzled expression. "Daddy, why isn't Ms. Chloe here yet?"
They had agreed to meet at nine, but it was now already half-past.
Joseph squinted, trying to hide his disappointment as he replied in a steady tone, "She's not coming."
"Why?" Jasper’s little face fell.
Just then, Joseph's phone pinged. Jasper quickly leaned in to read the message. As expected, it was from Chloe.
[Something came up. I won't be able to make it. Sorry.]
He tilted his head in confusion, then looked at his father. "Daddy, how did you know? Did Ms. Chloe tell you beforehand?"
"No."
"But then why—"
"Kids shouldn’t ask so many questions." Joseph's words were icy, but his usually cool lips carried a faint smile.
Jasper blinked, his eyebrows knitting together in skepticism. "Your expression is off. Are you hiding something from me?" Who in the world would be happy instead of angry after being stood up? Especially his father who was well-known for his icy countenance.
As the days had grown warmer, Chloe had on a pair of jeans and a simple white T-shirt while watering the flowers in the backyard. Her attire gave off a fresh vibe, and the sunlight shone down, illuminating the fine fuzz on her face and the particles in the air. The scene looked almost like a painting.
Zoelle emerged from her abode. As she witnessed this scene, her gaze lingered on Chloe. ‘Not bad,’ she thought, ‘Noah has good taste.’ She then wondered if Joseph's ex-wife was as beautiful as Chloe. Otherwise, he must be utterly oblivious to have let go of such a breathtaking beauty that was delivered right to his doorstep.
At that moment, Chloe noticed Zoelle's presence. With her watering can in hand, she approached Zoelle. "How’s Vanya doing?"
"Vanya’s okay. She's slowly regaining consciousness and self-awareness, but her recovery is slower than I expected."
Chloe's eyes brightened at the news. Keeping her composure, she suggested, "Let's take her outside to enjoy the sun. It might help with her recovery."
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