<b>Chapter 120 </b>
Karen paused for a moment, then quickly changed the subject.
“You and Ivan haven’t known each other long, yet he listens to you and is happy to go out with you. He must really like you.”
Parents always felt a quiet sense of relief when they saw their children getting along.
“I’ll walk him out in a bit, then head to the clinic. I won’t be home for dinner tonight.”
“The clinic? Are you feeling unwell?” Karen frowned, reaching out to check Alessia’s forehead.
Alessia’s lips curled into a faint smile. She’d gone from feeling awkward at such gestures to epting them with calm gratitude.
“Zachary’s studying at the clinic, remember? I thought I’d go see how he’s doing–and check in on Father Benedict while I’m there.”
“All right, I’ll pack up some tea cakes for you to take along. I used less sugar this time, so Father Benedict can enjoy them too.”
True to her word, Karen bustled off to box up the cakes, making sure to set one on a small te and hand it to Alessia.
“Have one yourself before you go. Looking after kids takes energy–sit and rest a
minute.”
With that, she gently ushered Alessia out of the kitchen. Both kids looked up at her, making her shake her head in mock exasperation, though the smile on her lips lingered.
Conversations like this–so ordinary, so warm–had been unthinkable back in the Tate household. Yet now, they had be part of her everyday life.
At the table, the three of them shared afternoon tea. York chattered nonstop, but his eyes darted between Alessia and Ivan.
“I’ve already called the Tate family driver. I’ll walk you down in a bit,” Alessia said.
“I’m not going back.” York scrunched up his face.
“You want to keep your spot, don’t you?”
“All you ever do is threaten me with that.” York pouted, stabbing a piece of cake with his fork and stuffing it in his mouth as if to vent his frustration. “Can’t you
<b>1/3 </b>
14.49
<b>“</b>If it works, why change it?” Alessia replied, not even ncing in his direction.
York puffed out his cheeks in annoyance. He tossed his fork aside, slouched back in his chair with his arms crossed, looking every bit the disgruntled little lord.
Alessia shot him a sidelong nce.
“If you want toe over next time, just ask. Sneaking out every day isn’t going to fly. If something happens to you, no one will know until it’s toote.”
“I get it,” York muttered, old memories flickering in his eyes.
Seeing that York still remembered what happenedst time, Alessia felt a bit more at ease. If he was still scared, he’d think twice before pulling another stunt.
Her phone buzzed just as she finished eating.
“Let’s go.
I’ll walk you downstairs,” Alessia said, picking up the leash and reaching out a hand to York.
He tried to y it cool, but couldn’t hide the little smile tugging at his lips. As soon as he took her hand, he shot Ivan a smug look.
Ivan didn’t react–he just set down his fork and stayed seated at the table.
“Ivan, finish up and then head to your room for a bit,” Alessia called over her shoulder as she was pulled toward the door, one hand gripping York’s and the other holding the leash.
“Easy, don’t yank so hard. And make sure you close the door–don’t pinch your fingers.”
“Yeah, yeah, you worry too much,” York grumbled.
“Mom, I’m heading out!” Alessia called out, remembering to say goodbye just as the door was about to close.
Karen answered from the other room. By the time she came out, the door had clicked shut, and the dining room was empty.
“That girl…” Karen muttered, ncing at the closed door before turning back to clear the table.
Inside, Ivan set his bag aside and picked up the box of paints sitting on the table–thetest Kassel & Co. set Alessia had promised him if he agreed to go out with her.
<b>2/3 </b>
unal
They’d spent the entire day together, so she couldn’t have bought it today. Which meant Alessia must have nned ahead.
<b>3/3 </b>