Chapter 390
Chapter 390
Perhaps it was because I had always been too lean before, but after having a child, my figure had rounded out a bit. I had developed curves in all the right places, giving me a more feminine look.
Upon seeing me, a glint of admiration flashed through Russel’s eyes. He then quickly composed himself and sincerely complimented me, “You look stunning. That dress suits you.”
“Really? I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to pull it off.” I breathed a sigh of relief. After all, that kind of dress was quite demanding on the figure, and sometimes I was quite concerned about what others thought of me.
“It’s gorgeous. Maybe you could do something with your hair. Perhaps curls would suit you better.” Russel pointed towards my hair and then asked, “Shall I give it a
try? I can do simple curls, just for tonight.”
Russel had that skill too? I was a bit surprised, but I nonetheless handed him the curling iron.
Unexpectedly, Russel’s curling technique was indeed very good. Looking at the large waves in the mirror, I felt a sense of elegance.
“Now, I will apply some makeup.” I was very satisfied with my hair and didn’t notice the change in Russel’s gaze.
As he watched me in the mirror, he lowered his gaze, “All right, I’m going to step out for some fresh air.”
Once Russel had left, I started applying makeup. I used to prefer a natural look and had never truly tried heavy makeup. But today, I decided to give it a go.
After finishing my makeup, I realized Russel hadn’t returned yet. He sent me a message, saying, “I’m waiting in the hotel lobby; come straight down when you’re ready.”
Once I was ready, I prepared to head downstairs.
“Hiram, don’t run off, or daddy will be upset,” I heard a familiar voice just as I reached the elevator.
Hiram ran over and Karina followed behind him, her voice slightly raised.
Upon seeing me, Karina was taken aback.
The elevator doors opened and Hiram glanced at me without saying a word. He walked into the elevator first and then called back to Karina, “Mommy, hurry up, or daddy will get impatient!”
Karina quickened her pace and entered the elevator after giving me a polite nod, “Ms. Finch, are you coming? Are you here for the weekend couples retreat too?”
-I nodded and walked into the elevator.
Karina didn’t seem to mind my cold reception. She rarely lost her composure. Even on the day of Neil and Bonnie’s engagement, despite all that had happened, she never showed any signs of breakdown or helplessness.
Given what she had done in the past, she was definitely a woman of deep scheming and ruthless tactics. 1 preferred to steer clear of her.
“Hiram, you need to behave, okay?” Karina held Hiram’s hand, gently instructing him. Your father and I weren’t planning on bringing you this time, but your father didn’t want you to be bored at home alone. So, you need to be good. All right?”
“Okay, mommy. Does daddy really like me? Is that why he brought me along?” Hiram asked curiously.
“Of course! All the toys and snacks at home, your father had them bought just for you. If he didn’t love you, why would he spoil you like this?” Karina’s smile became even brighter as she stroked Hiram’s hair. “You’re our only child and the fruit of our love. How could we not love you?”
Listening to her words, I couldn’t say I felt nothing. But it wasn’t too painful either.
I aimed to distance myself from Neil and Karina. That way, I wouldn’t have gotten entangled in their affairs. It was just a pang of regret I felt occasionally because of Hiram.
“Do you guys plan on having more kids? Will you stop loving me if you do?” Hiram, who usually seemed bold and mischievous, sounded unexpectedly sensitive with that question.
“No, you’re our only child. There won’t be any other children.” When Karina said that she glanced at me with profound meaning.
I pretended not to notice and walked out once the elevator doors opened.
Russel was sitting on a sofa in the lobby waiting for me. As soon as he saw me, he stood up and walked towards me.
When he saw Karina and Hiram emerging from the elevator, his face turned cold, clearly displeased,
Karina, however, greeted Russel casually, “Oh, you brought your wife along too. How sweet.”
“Mm.” Russel responded briefly, not intending to chat further. He held my hand and we walked
I didn’t know where Neil was waiting for Karina and Hiram, but I didn’t see him.
away.
The movie party started at six thirty in the evening. A giant screen was set up on the beach where a movie was going to be played. Roses and lights were arranged around, along with a variety of food and
drinks. As the sun set, it would have turned into a romantic and beautiful scene.
Other couples had already arrived. Some were strolling on the beach, some were tasting the food, and
and some were taking photos. Everyone was dressed up.
“Shall we take a walk?” Russel asked, not letting go of my hand. His hand was getting sweaty but when he asked.
I nodded in approval.
Walking barefoot on the beach was the best. I took off my heels and strolled on the beach with Russel under the twilight. The waves rushed towards us and then receded, creating a soothing sound.
The scent of the sea breeze relaxed me. That moment of peace made me feel very content.
Suddenly, Hiram’s voice echoed. I tumed towards the sound and saw him standing on the beach, making a peace sign while Karina was taking pictures of him,
Behind them stood Neil, dressed in a black shirt and trousers. He hadn’t even bothered with a tie, unlike the others who were dressed formally. But he still stood out His chansma was impossible to ignore.
The warm, red sunset fell on him, and the sea breeze messed up his hair, revealing his clean forehead. His exquisite eyes were slightly furrowed. He didn’t seem to be enjoying the beautiful scene or the warmth of his family.
Suddenly, he looked at me. I pretended not to see him and continued walking with Russel.
I needed to get away from them as soon as possible!
“If I had.
d.known he was here, I wouldn’t have brought you.” Russel finally spoke, sounding slightly irritated.
That kind of constantly running into each other was indeed frustrating.
“No worries. Let’s pretend we’re strangers.” I chuckled, letting go of Russel’s hand, and crouched on the beach, scooping up a handful of sand before asking, “How about a picture for memory’s sake?”
Russel took out his phone to capture the moment while I struck a pose. Dressed to the nines with flawless makeup, it would have been a shame not to have a picture.
“Dad, you and mom get a little closer. Give her a kiss!” Hiram’s voice rang out, assuming the role of a director, guiding Neil and Karina for a perfect keepsake photo.
