At the celebration feast marking the completion of the theme park renovation, Linda spotted Daniel, whom she hadn't seen in years. She was taken aback at first.
He no longer resembled the cheerful, innocent boy she remembered. Experience had given him a sense of maturity and composure. His eyes held a coldness, and his demeanor exuded power that could instill fear in others.
Approaching Linda, they gazed at each other for a prolonged moment and exchanged smiles.
"You must be Cordelia, right?" Daniel asked, turning to the woman beside Linda. "You look just the same as when we were young. You haven't changed a bit!"
Cordelia smiled and replied, "You're too kind with your words. It's been years. I even have a grandchild now. How could I remain unchanged?"
"Both of you would still stand out in the crowd, even in your golden years," Daniel commented.
After a brief conversation with Cordelia, she departed, leaving Linda alone with her thoughts. Many things had changed, but it felt as if nothing had.
Daniel broke the silence, gesturing on a screen toward the renovated theme park and offering a detailed explanation. "I'm sure many kids will adore it," he said. "I can tell Sephy loves it!"
Linda smiled. "She mentioned that. She wants it to be like cotton candy, and you've truly made it that way. You're spoiling her!"
"She's not only your granddaughter but also a Quimby descendant. How could I not spoil her?"
Linda hesitated. She knew Daniel had a specific reason for returning this time, and her worries seemed about to be confirmed.
"I won't beat around the bush, sis," he said candidly. "Dad asked me to give you something before he passed away. I came to Centrolis this time to give it to you."
Linda's expression darkened.
The news of her father's death had reached her. Nicholas had wanted to accompany her, but she hadn't gone. She still hadn't forgiven him for abandoning his wife and daughter all those years ago.
"He left you an inheritance." Daniel continued. "The paperwork is with the lawyer, and you can handle it in a couple of days. He felt guilty and left it for you. It's quite a substantial sum."
Linda smiled, realizing that money was unimportant to her now. What mattered more was keeping her family together, ensuring her daughter and son-in-law's happiness, and having her loved ones and old friends around until they grew old. She also cared about Daniel, hoping he could regain the kindness he once had.
"I heard you used some questionable tactics to acquire the Quimby Group in Cumulus City," she remarked.
Daniel looked taken aback but smiled subtly. "Are you implying that I've become ruthless, sis?" He finished his wine. "Should I not have used such tactics? If I didn't, they would have destroyed me."
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Married a Secret Billionaire