Irwin's eyes sparkled with excitement. "When the time comes, I'll be Mom Bryn's only child-she'll love and take care of me forever!"

...

Lauren parked the car at the base of the office building.

Once they got out, she took Irwin's hand and led him inside.

Irwin had visited here often before; he knew the place like the back of his hand. With practiced confidence, he guided Lauren straight to Briony's studio.

The moment they stepped in, Hannah greeted them at the door.

At the sight of Irwin, Hannah's brows knit together.

Briony had already warned her: if Irwin showed up again—no matter who brought him or what excuse was given-he was not to be let in.

Hannah didn't recognize Lauren, so she put on a polite but firm smile. "Excuse me, ma'am, may I ask who you are? Is there something I can help you with?"

Lauren answered with calm warmth. "I'm Irwin's grandmother. His parents are busy today, so I brought him along. We'll leave right after we discuss the cooperation I mentioned."

Cooperation?

Hannah gave Lauren a quick once-over.

Her elegant outfit and composed manner certainly gave off an air of wealth.

"I'm sorry, but our boss doesn't take walk-ins. You'll need an appointment. I'm afraid you'll have to come another day."

"I'm here on someone's recommendation-Mr. Lewis of Northborough. I'm sure you know the name?"

Mr. Lewis had powerful connections; everyone in the city whispered about it.

better than to offend

them into the lounge with a forced smile, brought them

caught Irwin's eye

the lounge and made a beeline for the office. He pushed the office door open and headed straight for the break room. Inside, Irwin crouched by the bed and pulled

"Woof! Woof!"

hallway, the golden retriever puppy locked in its crate suddenly

the restoration room, frowning

today." Hannah knelt and reached into

coming, and one of them is afraid of

at Hannah, barking more urgently, as if trying to

couldn't figure out

room, frowning. "What's wrong

acting really anxious all

him, stroking his

spun in frantic

studied him, growing more concerned. "Do you

twice at her, then let out a mournful

laugh. "He almost sounds

reply, when the

from behind

sound, both Briony

called, clutching his hands

let his mom

she saw him leave

"Mom, I just needed to use the bathroom. You're

gaze cool. "Who brought

his head, too

"Irwin."

in the

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

Comments ()

0/255