?Chapter 104:


    Lauretta’s instincts bristled with unease. “It’s with the Norris family, isn’t it?”


    Aldred’s reply came reluctantly. “Yes, it’s with Dominic. Even though the engagement ended on peaceful terms, the fault was ours. You can’t assume the Norris family harbors no resentment. Woodfort is exceptionally rare, and Dominic may refuse to part with it—especially after everything that’s happened between us.”


    Determined not to trouble her parents further, Lauretta assured them, “Don’t worry. I’ll handle it myself.”


    As soon as Lauretta heard that Woodfort was with the Norris family, her resolve hardened—whatever it took, she would persuade Dominic to hand it over.


    “Get some rest tonight. Once Caspien wakes in the morning, I’ll video call so you can see him,” Lauretta said gently.


    Morning arrived. Christina swung open her door to find Chloe waiting in her wheelchair, right outside.


    A bright smile broke across Chloe’s face. “You’re up! I’ve been waiting for you,” she said, stretching out her hands eagerly.


    Stepping over, Christina sped Chloe’s hands, returning her smile. “I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long?”


    Chloe shook her head, cheerfulness undimmed. “Not at all, I just got here. You came out right away!”


    The truth was, Chloe had risen with the dawn and asked the staff to bring her to Christina’s door. Out of consideration, she’d waited in silence, not wanting to disturb her friend’s rest.


    Guiding Chloe’s wheelchair toward the elevator, Christina asked, “Where do you want to spend today?”


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    Chloe took a moment to think, and then her eyes sparkled. “Can we go to the amusement park? I’d love that.”


    Christina didn’t hesitate. “Absolutely, let’s go,” she replied warmly.


    A wistful sigh slipped from Chloe as she murmured, “That’s wonderful! It’s just a pity I still can’t see. I won’t be able to watch you having fun…” Her longshes drooped, a shadow of disappointment crossing her face.


    Christina’s grin was full of encouragement. “Who says you’ll miss out? We’ll bring a camera along and have someone snap photos all day. Once your sightes back, you’ll have plenty to look at.”


    That suggestion chased away Chloe’s gloom, her eyes sparkling again. “What a great idea! Christina, you’re so clever.”


    With a yfulugh, Christina teased, “We both have our clever moments.”


    Laughter bubbled up between them, Chloe’s happiness so bright that it filled the room. “By the way, I had your favorite soup made for breakfast. Let’s eat now and get an early start!”


    “Sounds perfect,” Christina responded, her smile widening.


    Their morning meal was filled withughter and warmth before they headed out together, Christina taking the driver’s seat.


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