Chapter 234
“What was that about Oakwood High?” Sophie realized there was something odd about the situation.
Reece shook his head. “I’m not sure, but Nichole definitely wasn’t a student at a private girls‘ school. Those who attend North Bay High School usually come from less affluent families. If I remember correctly, Nichole had a mother addicted to gambling, and their financial situation was quite poor. I recall the head teacher pressing Nichole for tuition fees. Nichole insisted she could gather the money, but not long after, she dropped out.”
Sophie was listening and furrowed her brows in concern. So, Nichole wasn’t an orphan without parents.
“I know about Oakwood High. It only admits girls from the orphanage. Each year, Burke International and other companies sponsor one or two girls from this school.”
Sophie remembered that Burke International had supported many students in her past life, but Nichole was an exception. It all started when James happened to see Nichole giving water to a stray cat during a sponsorship meeting.
According to James, in Sophie’s past life, Nichole was a gentle and kind girl. Perhaps it was that act of kindness and Nichole’s innocent appearance that planted a seed of tenderness in the heart of James, who was battle–hardened by the corporate world.
“I’ll have someone look into this thoroughly.”
Sophie remained deep in thought, causing Reece to chuckle at the sight. He reached out to smooth the furrow in her brow.
Sophie snapped back to reality. “What is it?”
“Ms. Sophie, you’re younger than me, but think more deeply. It’s time to rest. Can we not be so serious?”
“It’s your news that was so explosive. I need some time to digest it.”
As they spoke, Sophie sent a message to Tricia, asking her to investigate Nichole’s information at North Bay High School.
Outside, a waiter pushed in a dining cart, quickly setting the table with food.
“To thank you for such a valuable lead, I picked the most expensive dishes on the menu today. How’s that for appreciation?”
“That’s very thoughtful.”
Reece and Sophie clinked glasses. Outside, someone captured the moment with their phone.
That evening, Sophie returned to the Burke family home late. Reece had driven her there himself.
From a window on the first floor, James saw them and frowned. He remembered that Reece was an artist under Russell Entertainment.
“James, I just brewed some coffee for you.” Calla, dressed in a homely outfit with an apron around her waist, waited expectantly for
James to turn around.
James replied indifferently, “No need, I don’t drink coffee at night.”
“That’s okay, I also made tea.”
Saying so, Calla picked up a cup of hot tea from the coffee table, intending to hand it to James, but her hand slipped, splashing the tea onto James‘ shirt.
“I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to.”
Sophie opened the door just in time to see Calla wiping James‘ shirt, standing very close to him.
Spotting Sophie, James immediately stepped back from Calla and went to help Sophie with her bag.
“Madam, please don’t misunderstand. The tea was too hot, and I didn’t hold it steady…”
“It’s alright.” Sophie’s face carried a faint smile. “Ms. Calla, you don’t have to see yourself as an outsider. It’s late. You should rest.”
“Yes.”
Calla cast a glance at James, but his gaze was nowhere near her.
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