Nathaniel was feeling bored when he received Gator's message. Instantly, he was invigorated.
He replied immediately: Of course. I can never reject an invitation from Ms. Gator, but this jackpot you're talking about, which family is it?
Winnie answered: Garland Group of Avenport, Chanaea. You can run a background check on it. I'll send the report and proposal to your mailbox. Let me know your answer once you've considered it.
Nathaniel typed: Okay. I'll give you an answer as soon as possible.
After working together for so many years, Nathaniel's interest in Gator didn't dim even the slightest. Ever since he heard Gator's voice the last time and knew about her gender, he got even more interested in her.
Nathaniel added: Oh right, didn't I joke about going to Chanaea to expand my business the last time? I have a schoolmate I'm close to in Avenport. Since you're also in Avenport, should we meet up?
Meet up? Winnie had never planned to meet up with Nathaniel ever.
She replied: Sorry. I don't talk about my personal life when I'm working. I'll wait for your news. She immediately signed out after sending the message.
Nathaniel, who was on the other end, felt resigned when he saw that Gator's profile picture dimmed. I never had a woman reject me before. Gator is way too mysterious and attractive.
It had been three days since Xavier last returned to the mansion.
One of the reasons was that he had just taken back the reins for Fairchild Corporation, so he had a lot on his plate. It was easier if he stayed at the condominium in the city center.
As he thought about the other reason, he released his grip on the mouse and rubbed the spot between his brows.
I would often recall that night when Dumbo had her arm and leg over me. I thought it would be better to stay away from her for a while, but I miss her more when she isn't in my sight. For example, when I saw a dessert in a restaurant or a Peppa Pig toy at the supermarket, thoughts of her would come to my mind. I kept telling myself what I felt for her wasn't the love between a man and a woman. Nonetheless, I'm Dumbo's husband in name, so I should at least fulfill my duty by asking about her welfare since she's all alone in the mansion.
However, when he picked up his phone to call Winnie, he got a call from Rufus.
“Hello, Granddad.”
“I heard you haven't returned to Lagune Mansion for three days and had been staying near the office. Is that true, Xavier?”
“Yes, Granddad. It's more convenient for me to handle work-related affairs.”
“Good. I feel assured leaving the ropes of the company to you, but you should take good care of your health since you've only recovered recently. Don't save a little only to lose a lot.”
“Got it, Granddad. I'll take care of myself.”
“Then, come over for dinner tonight.”
It would take about an hour to travel from Fairchild Corporation to the Fairchild residence, not to mention that one hour would double if there was traffic along the way.
As such, Xavier didn't want to go. “Let me take a raincheck, Granddad. I have another meeting later.”
However, Rufus was adamant about it. “Postpone it and come over earlier. I had the chef make your favorite dishes.”
“But, Granddad...”
“Winnie is here too.”
Xavier was shocked. “What is she doing there?”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Substitute Bride: Idiot Or Not?