The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became novel Chapter 23

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This time, the call went through, but no one picked up.

Tiana glanced at her smartwatch and saw an unfamiliar number flashing on the screen. But she remembered what her family had always taught her: Never answer a call from a stranger.

Besides, this weekend she was far too busy to bother.

She was off to the neighboring city with her dad, his friend, Miss Felly, and one of Miss Felly's friends to watch Miss Felly compete in a rock climbing tournament.

Miss Felly was amazing. She snagged first place again.

That night, the whole group gathered by the beach to celebrate her victory.

Miss Felly took turns giving rides on her jet ski, racing across the waves with Tiana and her dad hanging on tight. She looked so cool and fearless, Tiana could hardly contain her excitement.

She completely forgot to mention the strange number that had called her watch to her dad.

All too soon, it was Sunday afternoon and time to depart. Felicity had already left due to a work emergency, leaving Tiana and Julian to drive back by themselves.

The mood in the car was muted, and they both felt a little deflated by the time they arrived home.

Once they were back and settled in the living room, Tiana spoke up first. "Dad, without Miss Felly to cuddle me or tell me stories, I won't be able to sleep tonight."

"I can tell you a story and tuck you in," Julian replied, trying to sound reassuring.

"Your stories are awful! They're nothing like—" Tiana stopped herself, "nothing like Miss Felly's. And when you cuddle me, you just smell like smoke, and your arms are all stiff and uncomfortable!" She wrinkled her nose at him.

Julian stared at her, momentarily speechless.

After a moment, he suggested, "How about I go pick out a cute outfit for you tomorrow? We've had a busy weekend. Why don't you relax in a bath and then get to sleep?"

Tiana blinked up at him, her expression full of doubt. "But Daddy... can you even put together a decent outfit for yourself?"

Julian had no answer.

He had to admit, since Winona had left, both he and Tiana had been a bit lost—struggling with what to eat, what to wear, how to keep everything in order.

Nothing ever tasted right, and their clothes never looked quite right.

Back when Winona was home, she picked out all their clothes ahead of time, neatly arranging everything in its place. He remembered how she would even hand-wash and disinfect his underwear, folding it just so. His shirts and ties were always pressed, his suits perfectly matched and ready for him.