Chapter 14 Visiting the Sawyers
Nicholas parted his thin lips and said calmly, “He is behaving like this because he wanted to go home with you. I don’t think it was wrong to stop him. However, since you insist on tolerating him, why don’t you come to the Sawyers instead? Treat it as my invitation to you to perform for Greg at home, and I’ll pay you at your usual rate. How does that sound?”
Hm?
When Tessa heard the suggestion, she was instantly stunned.
Gregory’s sobs also halted as he looked up in surprise. He was quick to realize that his daddy had, in a way, agreed, and he was beaming as he looked at Tessa. “Is that all right?”
What on earth… Nicholas doesn’t want me to go near Greg, right? Why would he allow me to be in contact with Greg all of a sudden?
Still, no matter what, Tessa wouldn’t say no to more income.
Tessa’s lips curved into a smile as she cupped Gregory’s plump cheeks, replying in a loving tone, “All right, I’ll do it for you.”
“Yay! You’re the best! I can’t believe you’re coming over to my place!”
The child was overjoyed, and his little face was flushed red as his eyes twinkled like stars. Then, he ran over to kiss his father’s cheek and grinned happily. “I love you, Daddy! You’re the best!”
Nicholas didn’t know if he should laugh or cry.
This little guy changes his mood so fast.
After lunch, Tessa followed the father-son duo back to the villa. However, it was more of a manor than a villa.
It had a large area, and it was indescribably extravagant. It looked out of this world, surrounded by incredible landscapes designed and molded carefully by famous designers and craftsmen.
After passing through the front door, one would be greeted with low-profile yet luxurious decorations. The off-white theme of the space also introduced a warm touch to the surroundings…
“Come sit here!”
Gregory tugged at Tessa’s hand in enthusiasm, inviting her to sit on the couch. Attendants entered one after the other, serving various pastries, tea, and even a fruit platter…
On the other hand, Nicholas didn’t say anything as he secretly observed the woman’s behavior.
Except for Tessa’s constant amazement ever since entering the house, she hadn’t behaved abnormally. She didn’t actively try to win the child’s heart but kept thanking him instead.
After finishing tea, Tessa even took the initiative and asked, “Sweetheart, when would you like me to start my performance?”
Gregory was quite clever indeed. It didn’t take him long to think of an idea as he responded with a smile, “At night! I play the piano for half an hour every day after dinner, so can we play a duet later?”
Tessa hesitated for a moment as she glanced at Nicholas. The latter didn’t seem to be upset by the idea, so she nodded. “Of course.”
“Oh, then we can be together for longer.” Gregory looked extremely happy as he reached out his little arms to hug Tessa.
Tessa patted Gregory on the back, obviously taking a liking to this child. Hence, she stayed until the evening, and she also had her dinner there.
She was a little embarrassed, since she was in someone else’s home. She had accepted their money, but she spent most of her time eating and playing instead of performing, so it didn’t feel right to her.
However, Gregory was happy about it, and Nicholas didn’t seem to mind, so Tessa humored them dutifully.
After dinner, it was finally time for the performance.
Gregory tugged Tessa’s hand excitedly as they went to the living room, stopping in front of the majestic classical piano. Then, a servant fetched a violin for her. Gregory sat down in front of the piano, and the two began their duet.
Tessa had a knack for music, and she matched her playing with Gregory’s with great ease. During the duet, she suddenly realized that Gregory was also shockingly talented at playing the piano. He was so young, but his playing skills were impressive.
After the piece, Gregory and Tessa were both greatly satisfied.
“Do you know how to play the piano?” Gregory suddenly turned around as he asked Tessa.
Tessa smiled faintly. “Yes, I do.”
Gregory beamed in glee, asking, “Then, can we play the piano together?”
“Yes, of course.”
Tessa readily agreed, taking her seat beside the child. Her slender fingers were placed on the black and white keys as she readied herself to play.
Just then, Nicholas was going down the stairs as he caught sight of the scene. Under the warm yellow light, the adult and the child looked just like a mother and her son…
He felt something waver within him, an unspeakable feeling rising in his heart. The sounds of the piano were soon heard. The smooth and gentle tones of the instrument were like a clear stream of water that flowed in the air, melodious and touching.
After they were done playing, Gregory hadn’t had enough, so he pulled Tessa along to play a few more songs.
They were all children’s songs Greg loved.
Nicholas also listened for a long while as he stood at the stairs. He was interrupted, however, by the arrival of Edward and Kieran.
“President!” Edward had greeted him respectfully.
Kieran also called his name. “Nicholas.”
The two had on a serious expression, as if something had happened.
“Why? What’s up?” Seeing the expressions of those two, Nicholas decided to ask.
Kieran was about to talk when he caught sight of Tessa sitting on the piano stool. He couldn’t help but exclaim in surprise, “Tessa Reinhart? Why are you here?”
