The next day, Maisie hesitated but eventually decided to call Daniel.
Her heart raced when the call connected, and she felt nervous hearing Daniel's deep, electric voice on the other end.
"Maisie?" Daniel suppressed his joy, keeping his tone flat. "Why did you call?"
"I heard about what happened with my sister," she said, "I know you helped. I'm grateful."
"Oh, it's nothing." He played it cool. "Fat Lawler and my brother-in-law go way back. I was just catching up for him."
She mustered her courage and said, "Mr. Quimby, let me treat you to a meal just like before. You come to my place, and I'll cook."
Daniel's heart almost jumped out.
He was over the moon. He wanted to say yes, but his rationality kicked in.
In the end, he suppressed his emotions.
He pretended to be calm and said, "No need."
Maisie was disappointed but tried again. "It's actually my sister who initiated this. She's grateful for you. Not only did you help her clear her debt, but you also helped her get a divorce..."
"No need, really." Daniel chuckled. "You don't have to take it so seriously."
"Mr. Quimby..."
"I'm sorry, I've got to run. That's all for now."
As the call ended, Maisie's eyes dimmed.
-
Daniel stared into space on the couch for a long time. He snapped back to his senses when his subordinate called him.
"Are you going to sign the document?"
"Oh..." He refocused and reviewed the document. He nearly signed it in the wrong box.
When Daniel arrived at the Thompsons, Linda teased him immediately. "Wow, the VIP is here! Do you still remember your sister?"
He smiled and handed a gift to the butler.
"What goodies have you brought?" Nicholas asked, peering with tea in his hand.
"Don't worry. You'll love it," Daniel assured.
"I only like allowances and cigarettes now. Don't give me anything else!" Nicholas stated.
Linda sat on the couch, too far away to hit him, so she glared at him.
Nicholas playfully showed his teeth at her, like kids.
Daniel envied their carefree relationship. It was then that he noticed Zuko and Lina were also present.
Linda affectionately called him "uncle" and said, "Ah, you're so young. They should be calling you 'cousin' instead!"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Married a Secret Billionaire