Tangled Temptations novel Chapter 378

Brett asked, and Harvey didn't hide anything. He offered a faint smile, the kind that barely creased his lips.

For a moment, Brett felt a pang of envy. He took a sip of his coffee to mask it.

Harvey casually flipped through a magazine nearby and said with a nonchalant air, “If you had your way, you’d drop everything for Orlena. The project’s nearly wrapped up. No surprises there.”

Brett took in every word.

Just then, Daniel came bounding down the stairs and, upon seeing Brett, snuggled into his embrace with rosy cheeks, murmuring, "Daddy," in that soft, affectionate way of his.

Brett stroked his son's hair. The hopeful sparkle in Daniel’s eyes was unmistakable. “Can we build a snowman when it snows more, Daddy?”

Brett said nothing. He lifted his son onto his lap and fished a candy from his pocket for the little guy.

Daniel popped the candy into his mouth, looking up with anticipation.

Brett wanted to stay to make his boy happy, but duty called. The base had a pile of issues awaiting his attention.

Brett hesitated just for a second. Harvey noticed it and took Daniel into his arms, patting him gently. “Go play with Luca upstairs for a bit. I need to have a word with your dad.”

Daniel’s cherubic face clouded with disappointment, but he obediently climbed the stairs.

Brett felt a twinge of guilt.

Ashton was already five, and Brett, as his father, had barely spent a few days with him. He couldn't even commit to a simple snowball fight.

Noticing Brett’s troubled look, Harvey knew he was distressed.

Brett’s relationship with Orlena was something Harvey couldn't comment on much—it was a mutual affection, after all.

Hoping for a happy ending for Orlena, Harvey poured another cup of coffee for Brett and ventured cautiously, “What are your plans after the project ends?”

Brett clutched the coffee cup and gazed out at the gentle snowfall. He understood Harvey’s implication.

Brett spoke softly, saying, “The younger generation has mismanaged the Noland family business. I'm considering picking it up, maybe make something of it.”

Harvey let the subject drop.

Brett was booked to leave on the four o'clock flight, but by two, he was already saying his goodbyes. Harvey was fully aware of the unspoken reason.

With a hug for his son and a brave face against the falling snow, Brett stepped into the car. Donny couldn’t help but remark, “It’s not time yet. Why are you heading out?”

Brett, having removed his leather gloves, glanced ahead with his piercing eyes. “I’m going to the studio. And stop by halfway; I’d like to grab some coffee.”