Bamboo Grove Residences.
Outside Lillian’s Studio, a few luxury cars were parked, and a group of seven or eight staff members either sat or stood clustered by the entrance.
Inside the studio, Jade was meticulously flipping through Mila’s portfolio of art and design work from recent years. Her expressions shifted between furrowed brows and approving nods. About halfway through, she unexpectedly looked up at Mila, who was waiting nearby.
Are you really not upset? Won’t you regret it?
Mila was taken aback for a moment, but then realized what Jade was asking. She felt a mix of helplessness and amusement.
Auntie, you’ve asked me this all the way here. I’ve truly made up my mind.
Ever since she had revealed Lysander’s affair and her decision to divorce, her aunt’s demeanor had been tense, repeatedly asking if she was heartbroken or would regret it, to the point where Mila was nearly numb from the questioning.
Seeing Mila’s resolve, Jade’s expression softened slightly.
But soon, she feigned anger and gave the table a gentle tap, What, you find me annoying just because I asked a few more questions?
Of course not.
Mila moved closer, gently grasping her aunt’s hand. I haven’t seen you in ages, Aunt Jade. I wish I could talk to you every day, listen to whatever you have to say.
Oh, now you remember we haven’t seen each other in a long time!
As Jade spoke, her eyes reddened, and her aged voice carried a hint of a choked sob. Seven years, Mila, seven years. How many more seven years do you think I have? You’re so heartless, never visiting just because I once said I didn’t want to see you. I might be stubborn, but you’re just as obstinate. Do you want to drive me to my grave?
I’m not upset. Mila nuzzled her aunt’s hand, comforted by its warmth.
…
And what about my great-nephew, Adrian? What are your plans for him after the divorce?
Though Jade hadn’t been in touch much over the years or visited Mila, she knew Mila had a child shortly after marriage.
That was her great-nephew!
He was seven now, and Jade had seen photos of the handsome boy but had never had the chance to hold him. Not thinking about him was impossible.