It was clear now-Ferdinand was never meant to be Briony's soulmate.

The White family home was always full of laughter and warmth, especially during the holidays, but Gwendolyn White's heart was never quite at ease when it came to Briony.

Though she wasn't Briony's biological mother, Gwendolyn cared more about the rest of Briony's life than Julia ever could.

Julia, for her part, was sweet and affectionate but had a childlike dependence on Briony. With her memories still hazy, Julia's state of mind had never quite matured; she worried little about her daughter, who was now a mother herself.

As the night grew late, everyone retired to their rooms.

Briony tucked her two children into bed, humming softly as they drifted off.

A gentle knock sounded at the door.

Briony got up and opened it.

Gwendolyn White stood in the hallway, her voice low and tender. "Are the kids asleep?"

nodded off," Briony replied, stepping out and looping her arm

Gwendolyn smiled. "It's been so long since we've really talked. I wanted a little heart-to-heart

"Shall we have a drink

since Briony had taken over Starlight Entertainment, she'd gotten used to the occasional business

about some wine?" Briony suggested. "A little red does wonders for the complexion and

with a soft

uncorked a bottle and poured the wine into

she quickly put together a

was ready, they settled at the dining table, clinking their glasses with a soft

took a generous sip, draining nearly half her glass

had become at

seemed calm and gentle as ever, but there was a new

growing up-after you've figured out the world, it's hard to find real joy

proud of how much Briony had grown, but as she watched her-still so young at just past thirty, yet already resigned to a life of work and raising two children alone-she couldn't help but feel a pang

up fast. You really

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255