Unmasked My CEO Ex-Husband’s Regret novel Chapter 112

It was as if she were some man-eating monster.

"That's enough recharging."

Elara finally came to her rescue. "You've been driving for a long time. Grab something to eat first."

Sarah planted one last firm kiss on Melody's cheek before reluctantly letting her go and taking the juice and pastries Elara offered.

"Thanks."

She downed half the glass in one gulp, set it down, and turned to present her wrapped gift to Melody. "Happy birthday, Babe."

Melody happily accepted it and, under Sarah's expectant gaze, planted a big kiss on her cheek. "Thank you, Sarah."

Sarah looked fully satisfied. "You're welcome. Keep growing up happy and healthy, okay?"

Seeing Melody holding the gift without opening it, Sarah couldn't help but ask, "Aren't you going to open it?"

Melody hugged the present tightly and shook her head. "I'll open them all together tonight."

Sarah guessed, "Because it's more of a surprise that way?"

Blushing, Melody gave a shy nod.

"Awesome!"

Sarah gave her a thumbs-up, sighing dramatically. "Why wasn't I this smart when I was your age?"

Melody blinked bashfully.

As they chatted, there was another commotion at the entrance.

Maddox and Meredith had arrived.

Elara quickly led Melody over to greet them. "Maddox. Meredith."

Melody stayed close to Elara, greeting them softly, "Hello, Grandpa Maddox. Hello, Grandma Meredith."

Maddox looked down at Melody with a stern expression and reached out to pat her head.

Melody shrank back on reflex, but she didn't hide behind Elara. Instead, she stared at him with wide, vigilant, yet curious eyes.

Maddox finally rested his hand on her head, gave it a gentle rub, and withdrew. "Happy birthday."

Maddox's smile deepened when he saw his grandson, the wrinkles around his eyes crinkling.

Seeing him holding up the phone, Maddox asked curiously, "Are you recording?"

"Yeah."

Sebastian didn't mention he was recording for Melody. Since it wasn't convenient to chat while filming, he stopped the recording and asked Maddox casually, "Do you want a copy? I can send it to you later."

Maddox wasn't particularly interested, but since his grandson offered, he went along with it. "Alright."

After organizing the gifts, Elara returned to entertain Maddox. They were going to cut the cake soon, so she asked him to take a seat and wait a little longer.

Maddox gave a curt nod and, supported by Sebastian, walked over to the sofa where Elara and Melody had been taking pictures. He discreetly observed the room.

Elara, Melody, Sebastian, and even Jocelyn were there. The only person missing was the birthday girl's father, Julian.

"Where's Julian?"

Maddox turned to Elara behind him, his tone laced with subtle displeasure.

Hearing this, Meredith's heart skipped a beat.