All Too Late

Christopher couldn’t stop frowning.

Why did Astrid come back right now? I heard she worked as a war correspondent for a few years.

Christopher typed out a reply: I’ll do my best to be a good friend to her.

Osvald: It’s up to you. I just want you to keep an eye on her. That’s it.

Christopher let out a cold snort.

Is he saying that I’m overthinking?

Christopher went to watch the live stream and happened to see Kathleen bringing Astrid to their rooms.

“This is your room. Nancy and I are living on this floor, so if you need any help, just let us know.” Kathleen was both gentle and thoughtful.

Astrid chuckled. “All right. This is my first time on a variety show, so I’m completely baffled. Please let me know if I do anything wrong!”

“This is my first time, too.” A smile nudged Kathleen’s lips. “We can learn together.”

“Sure,” Astrid replied cheerfully. “I worked as a war correspondent overseas previously. A year ago, a grenade splinter cut across my forehead, and I nearly lost my life. I was traumatized and ended up coming home.”

Kathleen nodded in acknowledgment.

She actually didn’t want to ask personal questions, for she knew how to respect someone else’s privacy.

Now that Astrid chose to reveal everything herself, Kathleen had to play along. “You did great.”

“If I don’t do it, someone else will,” Astrid responded. “It might be dangerous, but I think it’s a meaningful job. Compared to normal jobs, I think mine is far more significant.”

“Every job has its own significance,” Kathleen told her.

Astrid met her gaze thoughtfully. “You’re right.”

“Let’s head down to join everyone downstairs.” Kathleen smiled.

Astrid nodded and reached out to take Kathleen’s hand. “Oh, your hand is soft, unlike mine. I didn’t get to take care of my hands previously, so they are pretty rough.”

Kathleen’s lips curved. “You can start now. Your hands will be like mine soon.”

you say.” Astrid’s lips

them headed

I felt really uncomfortable after hearing

same way, too! She seemed to be mocking

was just lamenting how hard her life used

revealed her identity outright so that Kathleen wouldn’t misunderstand

don’t think there’s anything wrong with Astrid’s remarks. She wasn’t

was no need for her to insult other jobs! Kathleen’s right. Every job has its

She even said her hands are rough because of her job. Obviously, she was

began

the comments as his expression

shooting went

team told them that some special guests would be coming for dinner that night and they

team didn’t mention

at that piece

deliberately, “Kathleen, who do you think the customers

shook her head. “I

thought you’d know who they

calm as she replied, “Why would

gave her a sidelong

Kathleen prepare dinner alone

hesitated for

offered gaily. “My looks might suggest otherwise, but I’m a great cook.

a good wife and mother? Is that

will be tiring if you handle everything alone. You and Kathleen should work together,” Steve

great cook. I shall take the opportunity to learn from her!” Astrid agreed readily. “Kathleen, please teach

each prepare our own signature dishes for dinner,” Kathleen suggested nonchalantly. “What do you

a pause, Astrid replied,

her with a grin. “I promise I’ll teach you everything you

Astrid pursed her lips.

What an inconspicuous retort.

at Astrid and

that, Kathleen turned around and went to the kitchen to

Astrid went after her.

the kitchen, Astrid said happily, “What a wide kitchen. I just realized that there is a dishwasher here. That eases our