The Ugly Wife’s Stunning Comeback (Felicia and Max) novel Chapter 174

Tommy said, “He did. Jett didn’t notice anything.”

Felicia nodded. “Good. Keep an eye on him. If anything happens, call me.”

“Will do.”

Mason drove Felicia back to the hotel. On the way, her phone started to buzz. She glanced at the screen and paused, her breath catching. Even after five years, she still recognized his number in an instant.

She hesitated for a moment, then answered and held the phone to her ear. On the other end, a small, raspy voice called out, soft and a little shaky. “Evelynn.”

Felicia could tell right away that Anne had been crying. Her heart clenched. “Anne, have you been crying?”

It was Saturday. Anne always waited to watch Felicia’s show at eight, but tonight, someone else was hosting. Disappointed, Anne had thrown a fit and ended up in tears.

Max waited until she calmed down, then handed her the phone.

Anne’s voice was small. “Why didn’t I see you on TV tonight?”

Felicia knew Anne never missed her Saturday show. Maybe it was some kind of bond between them, something that went beyond words. It made Felicia feel warm, but also guilty. She wished she could reach out to Anne as her mother, but she couldn’t.

Felicia took a deep breath and tried to keep her voice steady. “I had some other work today, so someone else took my place.”

Anne let out a soft “Oh.” Then she said, “I didn’t call you yesterday. Did you miss me?”

Felicia gave a gentle smile, even though Anne couldn’t see it. “Of course I missed you.”

Just like that, Anne’s pout disappeared and she sounded much happier.

They chatted as the car pulled up to the hotel. Even then, Anne didn’t want to hang up.

Max’s voice came from the background. “Anne, it’s time for your bath.”

Anne listened quietly, holding the phone close.

A few minutes later, Felicia’s humming faded. The other end of the line was quiet, except for the soft sound of breathing. Felicia spoke in a gentle whisper. “Anne?”

A man’s deep, calm voice replied, “She’s asleep.”

Felicia answered quietly, then ended the call without another word.

Max put the phone down, a thoughtful smile tugging at his lips. He glanced at his daughter, who was fast asleep with her arms stretched out above her head. He gently tucked her hands under the blanket.

As he pulled the covers up, he heard Anne mumble in her sleep, “Mommy.”

Max’s hand stopped mid-motion. He stared at his daughter’s peaceful, innocent face, lost in thought.