Chapter 636 Cultivating Feelings
They wrapped up lunch.
Claire and Abella were chatting and laughing, totally engrossed in their conversation.
Phillipe checked the time. Since Claire arrived, he hadn't had much chance to talk to Abella.
"Mom," Phillipe interrupted, "Dad's lonely at home by himself."
"What, are you in such a hurry to get rid of me? Abella and I haven't finished our chat," Claire said, turning to Abella with a smile. "And then the store manager said the waist of that dress was very small, that an average girl couldn't fit into it. I told him my daughter-in-law is not an average person and showed him your photo. Guess what? The store manager and all the salespeople gathered around and kept complimenting how beautiful you are."
Abella laughed at Claire's animated storytelling.
Claire added, "The store manager said with your slim waist, you could definitely wear it. So, I bought the dress and left it in the car. I'll get it for you later."
Abella's smile grew even more gentle. "Thank you, Mrs. Bourbon."
"No need to be so polite, we're family."
Whenever Claire went shopping, she always thought of Abella first.
Sometimes, when Andrew saw her come back from shopping, he noticed everything she bought was for Abella, and nothing for him. He felt quite neglected.
"Mom," Phillipe spoke up again, "Abella and I have some work matters to discuss."
"Then go ahead, I'll give you some advice."
"Come over here," Phillipe gestured for Claire to come aside and whispered, "Do you want me and Abella to end up together or not? With you here, we can't develop our relationship."
"My relationship with Abella also needs to develop."
"Can you develop it when I'm not around?"
Seeing that Abella rarely had time to visit Phillipe, Claire said, "Alright, I'll head back first. Take good care of her and don't bully her, you hear?"
"I can't even love her enough," Phillipe replied.
"Abella, I'm leaving now. This afternoon, let Phillipe show you around. If he doesn't do a good job or if anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, just tell me, and I'll back you up."
Abella laughed. "Thank you, Mrs. Bourbon."
"Stop saying thanks, you don't need to be so polite."
"Shall I see you off?"
"Sure, sure." Claire gave Phillipe a pleased look.
Phillipe remained silent.
The employees on the first floor saw Abella walking out of the elevator arm in arm with Claire. Claire was in a great mood, responding happily to anyone who greeted her.
She was completely different from her initial imposing demeanor.
When with Abella, Claire seemed to have endless things to say. Their cheerful conversation drew a lot of attention from those around them.
"They really look like a harmonious mother-in-law and daughter-in-law."
"I wonder what this girl does to make someone so angry one moment and so happy the next."
"Anyone who can win over Mrs. Bourbon must be extraordinary."
"When you have time, come visit our home," Claire formally invited.
Previously, they had only met at Phillipe's grandparents' place.
Abella had never been to Andrew and Claire's home.
"Sure, I'll visit in a few days," she replied.
Seeing how sweet and sensible Abella was, Claire liked her even more. "I'm really envious of Kimberly for having such a lovely daughter. But luckily, we're family. Thinking about having such a considerate daughter-in-law makes me feel sweeter than honey."
Claire couldn't stop smiling. "Phillipe's status will attract some women. If any of them are too troublesome, just tell me, and I'll handle it."
Abella was about to say thank you but remembered Claire's words and smiled. "Okay."
"You're always so obedient and well-behaved."
Before Claire could finish, an employee passing by called out, "Ms. Sanders," and then, "Mr. Bourbon."
She turned and saw Phillipe had followed them to the main building.
"Why did you follow us?" Claire was a bit annoyed.
"Abella doesn't know the way. I'll show her around," Phillipe replied.
Claire sighed. "Alright, no need to see me off. My car is in the basement. I'll just take the elevator down."
Claire patted Abella's hand. "Let's go shopping and have some fun another day."
"Okay." Abella smiled warmly. "Goodbye, Mrs. Bourbon."
"Goodbye, Abella." As Claire entered the elevator, she couldn't help but marvel. 'How such a well-behaved girl could exist. She is so likable, with a great personality and many skills. She is so excellent, so outstanding.'
As the elevator doors closed, Claire reminded Phillipe, "Don't forget what I said."
He must take good care of Abella.
Such a good Abella, she had to keep her firmly and not let anyone else have her!
Seeing Claire finally leave, Phillipe took Abella's hand. "Let me show you around."
Abella noticed it was work time, and many employees were hurrying into the main building. She immediately understood his intention. 'He just wants more people to know about my presence, doesn't he? Is it necessary?'
Phillipe said, "My mother just repeatedly told me to make sure you get familiar with the place."
Seeing that he even brought up Claire, Abella couldn't help but laugh. "Alright."
When the two appeared hand in hand in the procurement department, everyone was stunned.
Some employees who had ordered takeout or gone home for lunch were seeing Phillipe holding a girl's hand so openly in the company for the first time.
They looked like a couple in love, and the usually aloof Phillipe now seemed like a considerate boyfriend.
They were all dumbfounded. After recovering, they quickly stood up to greet him, "Good afternoon, Mr. Bourbon. And this is..."
"Mrs. Bourbon."
This title shocked the entire department. This girl appeared as Phillipe's wife?
She was amazing.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Bourbon!" Everyone greeted in unison, looking at Abella with eyes full of surprise and astonishment.
Abella was stunningly beautiful, with elegant features, great skin, a slim figure, and an outstanding aura.
She was the kind of top-tier beauty that one couldn't take their eyes off of.
"Hello, everyone." Abella's voice was equally pleasant, soothing and refreshing, making people feel comfortable and delighted.