Five Years of Marriage to Mr. Bradford (by Koi Fish) novel Chapter 167

Chapter 167

Rebecca walked out of the clinic, a quiet realization settling over her.

Wherever she went now, she no longer hunched or tiptoed, terrified someone would notice her limp.

Her leg problem was an undeniable fact, yes, but it was not her fault and not a stain on her character. Why should she feel ashamed?

Love had once made her small. Loving someone who did not cherish her had made her small. Now that she had stopped loving, she could finally stand tall.

With that clarity, she would not be bothered again by Vance, Catherine, or anyone else. Nothing felt more exhilarating than the knowledge that she was about to spread her wings and fly.

Vance called after her, and Catherine called after him. In the end, he would stay with Catherine, just as he always chose her.

It no longer mattered. Vance had never truly been hers. Letting go of something that was never hers might sting for a short while, but the pain would pass.

Rebecca hailed a cab and headed straight to Josette’s house. The moment she reached the gate, she shouted for her grandmother, unable to contain her excitement.

Josette came out, pulled her into a tight hug, and beamed with joy.

Because of the stitches, a noticeable patch of hair had been shaved. Rebecca had styled it into a loose,

jaunty bun to hide the spot.

Luckily, Josette didn’t notice, just took her hand and led her inside, just like when she came home from

school as a kid. The familiar aroma of home-cooked food filled the air.

Josette handed her the passport envelope. Rebecca tore it open at once, flipping through the two visa pages again and again, savoring every detail.

She explained which was the student visa and which was for the tour. Josette listened with a warm

smile, congratulating her nonstop.

Yet a strong wave of reluctance washed over her. She wrapped her arms around Josette’s waist. Grandma, would you come with me to see Aunt Kaitlyn?”

Josette thought for a moment, then nodded. “All right.”

“Really?” Rebecca’s face lit with pure delight.

“Yeah.” Josette stroked Rebecca’s cheek, glancing at the top of her head.

A pang of sadness hit her as she realized Rebecca was still hiding things.

Leaving Rebecca to go abroad alone was impossible. It was better to go along and watch her.

1/3

Chapter 167

+25 Bonus

“Let’s book the passport appointment right now!” Rebecca decided.

The process took time. After the tour, she could help Josette with the visa, and then they could leave together.

Rebecca checked her phone, saw open slots that afternoon, and booked one. After a joyful lunch, she rested a bit, then took Josette to the passport office.

Outside, the sun shone brilliantly, matching her good mood. She suggested, “Grandma, let’s eat in the city tonight. I’ll treat you to something nice!”

“Wonderful!” Josette never spoiled anyone’s fun.

“How about Italian? Get a taste now!” Rebecca laughed heartily and reserved a table.

They still had time, so she led Josette strolling along the nearby street lined with charming cafés, tea houses, and quirky little restaurants.

“My goodness, this street has changed so much!” Josette marveled, recounting how it used to look. ” There used to be a boutique here. When I was young, I came with my best friend to buy dresses.”

Rebecca grinned, knowing Josette came from a scholarly family. Old photos at home showed her elegant poise.

“Let me get you something from this dessert store. It’s heavenly. Look at the line!” she said, pointing to a

new shop with colorful creations that looked almost too beautiful to eat.

Josette hesitated. “These are all young folks. I’d stick out like a sore thumb.”

“Come on!” Rebecca pulled her into line.

The girls ahead kindly offered their stool to Josette. Rebecca’s heart swelled. “Thank you.”

These small acts of kindness made her love the world even more. She had hidden away too long, but it was not too late.

She bought a dessert and shared it with Josette. From now on, her life would be about cherishing Josette and building her own strength.

As dinnertime approached, she led Josette into the restaurant and requested a window table so they could watch the city lights come on.

They had just ordered when someone appeared-Vance Bradford.

He was clearly headed for a private room, but his hurried steps suddenly halted beside their table.