Chapter 1981


    "Stop scrolling," Martin took Serena''s phone gently, and gently reassured her, "I know you''re bummed


    out. Let''s hit the mall tomorrow, take a little breather."


    The next morning.


    Martin was with Serena at Summerfield''s biggest mall. Before they even stepped inside, his phone


    rang.


    “Dad.”


    Whatever the man on the other end said, Martin’s face twisted with difficulty. He nced at Serena and


    patted her shoulder, signaling that he needed a moment to talk.


    Serena knew it must be his family causing trouble again. Though she was inwardly seething, she


    managed a tender nod.


    Martin stepped aside, whispering, “I’ll be there as soon as I wrap this up.”


    The man on the phone seemed furious. Martin’s eyes clouded withplexity. He saw Dora waiting


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    patiently with a girl in a wheelchair, her silhouette tinged with loneliness. He’d been neglecting her


    “Dad, like I said.”


    The man cut him off, his voice harsh. Martin could only suppress his frustration, replying, “Understood.”


    After hanging up, Martin collected himself and walked back to Serena. She spoke up before he could


    start.


    “You go handle your business; Dora’s got me.”


    Her words deepened Martin’s remorse. “Serena.”


    “It’s alright. We’ve got a lifetime ahead. If you can’t stick around this time, just make it up to meter.”


    She softened her voice, “Kneel down for a sec.”


    Martin knelt beside her.


    In the next moment, Serena kissed him lightly, “Don’t worry about me, I’ll head home after shopping.”


    The clouds in Martin’s heart scattered.


    “Let’s roll, Dora.”


    Dora, witnessing their sweet exchange, smiled as she pushed the wheelchair, “Don’t fret, Sir. I’ll take


    good care of Serena.”


    “Call me if you need anything,” Martin reminded them as they moved away.


    “Will do.”


    The mall was alive with cheerful holiday tunes, a festive spirit in the air.


    Dora wheeled Serena to the directory. “Let’s check out the second floor.”


    “Holly,” Serena wasn’t pleased, but she kept her grace, “Can''t you see me?”


    Holly turned, slightly surprised, “Serena? Oh, I''m sorry, I didn''t notice you. With the hat and sunsses,


    I didn''t recognize you.” Co?tent оf


    Serena bristled at being addressed so informally. “Any new arrivals?”


    “Holly, I recall you being far more amodating on my previous visits.”