Chapter 230
“That relieves me,” Catherine said, her probing gaze lingering on him. “With you always placing me ahead, I feared she’d be heartbroken.”
“She understands the history,” Vance mused. “We, as a group, endured the toughest phases together, paving the way for her comfortable life now. She gets it and will remain steadfast.”
Vance’s interruption earlier had derailed Rebecca’s desire to linger in bed.
Josette had already breakfasted on store-bought bread from their prior outing, with a fridge stocked full of milk cartons and a fried egg on the side. Noticing Rebecca’s rise, she cheerfully prepared another egg.
“Grandma, let me handle it,” Rebecca offered.
Josette waved it off. “At my age, staying active is the best workout.”
Rebecca shook her head, amused by Josette’s persistent excuses for caring for her.
For lunch, they cooked together. After the meal, they tidied up, and Rebecca prepared to set off.
With Josette set to navigate Arelmoor alone, she unleashed a torrent of advice, covering everything from household routines to safe outings.
“You’re turning into quite the worrier,” Josette chuckled. “I’m not helpless yet, or forgetful.”
Rebecca laughed along, pulling Josette into a tight embrace. She knew Josette was capable, yet the concern persisted.
“Prioritize safety above all,” she reiterated.
“You have my word,” Josette promised, patting her back while tucking a bank card into her bag.
Unaware, Rebecca packed her freshly laundered and dried clothes into the suitcase, confirming nothing had been overlooked.
Soon, Desmond arrived to pick her up.
“Go on. I’ve got this handled alone,” Josette encouraged.
“But tonight…” Rebecca hesitated.
“I’ve already planned the menu and will start cooking shortly. Everything’s under control,” Josette interjected, gently ushering her toward the door.
Torn between reluctance and amusement, Rebecca said, “Your new phone number is private, known by the few of us. Ignore unfamiliar calls. My phone will disable roaming after takeoff. I’ll send my new number upon arrival.”
“Understood. Off you go. Take good care of yourself,” Josette urged.
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Chapter 230
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Rebecca hugged Josette again and stepped out.
Desmond’s family driver drove them to the airport. An hour later, they arrived as dusk encroached.
Lauren awaited, with troupe members arriving in waves. After a headcount, the group processed baggage and security.
In the lounge, the window offered views of a blazing sunset.
“Look at that sunset. Doesn’t it resemble a phoenix rising from the ashes?” Desmond pointed.
“Exactly.” Rebecca nodded.
The clouds, painted in vivid gold and crimson, ignited a powerful urge within her-a vision of dancing like that mythical bird, ascending in flames. In her imagination, a young woman whirled and leaped.
It sparked fresh choreographic inspiration, though she’d never complete it herself. That was fine. The troupe brimmed with talent; they could bring her vision to life.
As the sunset’s final hues yielded to night, they began boarding the plane. Since she was checking in with Desmond, their seats were together.
Once situated, she texted Josette: [Takeoff imminent. Talk in about a dozen hours.]
Josette replied: [Safe travels, dear.]
Comforted, Rebecca activated flight mode.
The plane taxied, poised for liftoff amid enveloping darkness. Concurrently, Vance and Catherine
returned to their hotel after dinner.
He had been dialing persistently, continuing through to the lobby, his brow furrowing deeper with each failed attempt.
“This is odd. Why can’t I connect?” he muttered.
“Rebecca?” Catherine asked.
“Yeah. What could she be doing? Josette’s phone is off, too.” He switched to another contact, and it came through. “Nancy? Has Rebecca stopped by today?”
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