“Please, enough with the ‘Mr. Harper’—it sounds far too formal,” Sophia said, sensing the real question behind the hesitation. “The divorce papers should be with him. He’ll be back next week, and I’ll have him get in touch with you.”
Amelia’s main reason for returning to Silkwood was for Ruby’s treatment. Besides, now that the divorce was final, even if they did bump into each other someday, they’d just be two strangers with no ties left. At most, they might exchange a polite nod or a fleeting smile—or maybe not even that.
In any case, Silkwood was a big city. The odds of two people running into each other in such a sea of faces were slim to none; it was possible they’d never cross paths again.
There was nothing left to worry about.
The following week, Amelia was busy hunting for a new apartment and car. Between her savings and the generous bonus Sophia insisted she take, she had more than enough to buy a spacious, upscale flat in a prime part of town.
On moving day, Sophia came to help, though there wasn’t much to move. The main task was stocking the new place—groceries, drinks, household essentials, the works.
They drove to the largest mall in Silkwood, aiming to take care of everything in one go.
Ruby, curious as ever, craned her neck to take in the sights. There were shops on base, but nothing like the sheer variety this massive mall offered—especially one as modern and bustling as this.
Amelia and Sophia were browsing a boutique specializing in luxury kids’ bedding, picking out a comforter for Ruby. Meanwhile, Ruby amused herself by hopping along the patterns on the tile floor.
Suddenly, her attention was drawn to a figure just outside the shop.
A tall man walked past, exuding quiet authority. Even without seeing his face, his presence was striking—a small entourage of well-dressed assistants trailed behind him as if he was inspecting the premises.
“Uncle!”
Ruby pressed her nose and hands to the glass door, waving excitedly.
Daniel turned at the sound, spotting an adorable little girl plastered to the glass like a tiny gecko, her cherubic face framed by big bright eyes that sparkled with mischief.
For an instant, Daniel was transported—seeing a miniature version of Amelia calling out, “Big brother!” in that clear, sweet voice.
Ruby glanced back toward the elegant showroom. Her mom and Aunt Sophia had gone to the far side with a sales associate, their figures hidden behind a sparkling crystal pillar—only a flash of a dress hem visible.
“My mom’s right over there,” Ruby said, reciting her mother’s rule. “As long as I don’t leave the shop, it’s okay.”
Daniel grinned, feeling playful. “What if Uncle bought you a big, sweet ice cream? Would you come out then?”
Ruby’s face twisted in temptation, but her resolve won out. “No, thank you.”
Daniel straightened, pretending to be disappointed. “Alright then. Maybe next time.”
Ruby looked up at him as he stood, taking in how tall he was from her small vantage point—sharp jawline, strong throat, and healthy, rosy lips.
“Uncle?” she said, tugging on his pant leg with utmost seriousness. “You look really healthy. Could you give me your liver?”
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