Chapter 392
Chapter 392
Everyone was holding their bated breath, as if afraid a mere whisper might have disturbed Karina.
I knew she was capable. When she had returned to the country, many had offered generous sums for her consultation. But she kept a low profile and made few appearances. Thus, many didn’t know who she was unless they were ill and had specifically researched her.
After about ten minutes, the woman who had passed out slowly opened her eyes. Her breathing was still sharp and shallow, but she was clearly getting better.
“That doctor is incredible!” The man who had initially opposed Karina was then exclaiming in awe.
“Is that acupuncture? It’s really impressive! Which hospital is she from?” Another asked.
“She’s young and pretty too,” someone else commented, clearly attracted by her appearance.
Regardless of the comments, they were all in praise of her.
With his mother being complimented, Hiram beamed with pride. He ran over to Karina, planting a kiss on her cheek, and then asked Neil loudly, “Dad, isn’t mom
amazing?”
Neil smiled. It was a genuine smile of appreciation as he replied, “Yes, she is.”
Flattered by his praise, Karina blushed, clearly pleased.
Some recognized Neil and started discussing Karina’s identity. I took my leave before anyone recognized me and started discussing the scandalous tale tied to my
name.
Russel followed me as we left, and we returned to the hotel for some rest.
“Are you okay?” Russel asked me softly when we got back to our room.
“I am,” I replied, sitting on the sofa and flexing my tired feet. “I’m just tired. Dancing and walking around all day have worn me out.”
Russel chuckled and came over to kneel before me, reaching out to hold my foot. “Would you like a massage?”
I recoiled at his touch, quickly pulling my foot away. “No, I’ll just take a shower. You can go first.”
“Okay.” Russel was always accommodating, never arguing with me. He grabbed his clothes and headed for the bathroom while I went out to the balcony, where I could see the large screen from afar, where people were still gathered.
AsT stood there enjoying the breeze, I heard a noise from the adjacent balcony. Standing there was a tall, slender figure. It was Neil. He was lighting up a cigarette and looking out towards the dark sea.
Neil noticed me, and our eyes met for a moment. Neither of us spoke, nor looked away. After a few seconds, I broke our gaze. There was no need for this silent confrontation. It would have only led to complicated feelings.
My phone rang. It was a video call from my mother. The first thing I saw were the adorable faces of Serena and Brandon.
“Do you miss mommy?” I asked them, my heart instantly warming up at the sight of the two.
“Of course, they miss you!” My mother replied with a laugh.
“How’s the nanny? Is she taking care of the kids properly? Remember, they need to be fed scientifically.”
My mother answered my questions, and we chatted about the kids. Then she asked about Russel and how our day had been.
I glanced at Neil. He wasn’t looking at me, but I knew if I had spoken a bit louder, he would have been able to hear me.
“It was great. I had a very relaxing day with him. He’s very gentle and caring towards me. Don’t worry,” I replied, raising my voice.
Neil’s face twitched, as if he wanted to turn and look at me but refrained from doing so.
“Dad, I can’t write this word no matter how hard I try!” Hiram’s voice came from next door. I saw him walk out onto the balcony, holding a pen and a tablet.
Even on vacation, they were still practicing English words. I was sure that this must have been Karina’s idea. She was eager for Hiram to fit into English society in hopes of gaining the affection of Ryan and Faith. But if he couldn’t write English words, it might have been a bit difficult.
Neil stubbed out his cigarette and patiently taught Hiram how to write the word. Despite his serious demeanor, it was clear to me that he truly loved the child. Karina emerged, fresh from a shower in a purple silk nightgown. Her hair was still wet, and her figure was alluring.
‘Neil, go take a shower,” she said softly.
“In a minute,” Neil replied, continuing to help Hiram.
Karina then noticed me. She looked surprised for a moment before flashing me a smile and saying, “Ms. Finch, you’re staying next door? What a coincidence.”
“Yes, it is,” I responded with a smile, though I secretly wished it weren’t so.
Russel had finished showering. He went to the balcony, draped in a towel with his upper body exposed. His broad shoulders and toned physique gave off an aura of security.
When he appeared beside me, Neil’s gaze fell on us. It was cold and emotionless.
But I didn’t need to concern myself with his feelings or thoughts. All that mattered was my own happiness.
Neil entered the room without uttering a word, leaving just Karina and her son, Hiram, out on the balcony.
Karina watched Neil’s retreating figure. Her face was calm and gentle. It seemed as if she wasn’t bothered by Neil’s mood swings.
