Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled

Chapter 405

The rain outside was pouring down, and its staccato rhythm against the window pane was enough to keep Serena awake. Those big eyes of hers were wide open, staring at me,

Despite my own fear of thunder, seeing my delicate child made me feel a mother’s courage. Every time I sensed a thunderclap was about to explode, I’d cover Serena’s ears right away.

It was as if the heavens had a personál vendetta against us that day. Rather than the quick, passing storm one might expect, the rain seemed to have been increasing in intensity. Outside, shadowy figures occasionally rushed by, their outlines blurry in the deluge.

The phone rang. It was my mother. “Rena,” she said. “Where are you and Serena? You didn’t take an umbrella with you. Try to find shelter; you can’t let the child get wet!”

“We’re fine. We’re waiting out the storm inside a shop.” I reassured her.

“If it gets too bad, your father can bring you an umbrella, or you could buy one,” she suggested, her voice laced with concern.

After a short conversation, I hung up. That’s when Faith spoke up. “Irene, if you need to get home quickly. Neil can run out and get an umbrella, and escort you to your car.”

At her words, Karina instantly glanced at Neil. Faith seemed oblivious to any potential awkwardness, and urged Neil on. “Go buy an umbrella, Neil. A little rain won’t hurt a big guy like you. Can’t let a lady and a child get soaked.”

Neil, already in a sour mood, only looked at me, his eyes a cold steel.

“No need. I can order an umbrella online,” I said quickly.

Ignoring my objection, Faith insisted. “Why bother with that when there’s a mall right across the street? It’s much easier to just have Neil go.”

She didn’t seem to care that her own son might get soaked and catch a cold.

home would be better, and less worrying for her parents, Karina added, nonchalantly backing up

a look, neither approving nor disapproving.

the shop. His silhouette disappeared across the street, into

retreating figure through the glass door, and a strange

did Daddy go to the mall? I want a Transformer

It’s raining heavily outside. Next time we’ll get you a

to play now!” Hiram pouted.

and have him bring a toy. He’s

number and relayed his

over to Ryan, giving him a

in silence, gently rocking Serena

down relentlessly. Neil emerged from the mall, holding

he returned to the shop, I could

”

politely as he handed

face was covered with damp mist, giving him an aura of cold

stare. It

Neil handed me something else. It was a boxed doll with black hair and blue eyes, dressed in a golden gown.

what?” I stuttered, not understanding his intention.

Hiram’s gift. For your daughter,” Neil said quietly, not meeting my gaze. “Consider it a belated

Serena was my child with Russel.

my confusion, Neil clarified, “It wasn’t my idea. My mom texted me and insisted I do this.