Chapter 222: She Won't Believe It Easily
Christopher was both remorseful and resigned.
Ivan, however, remained indifferent. "You shouldn't have brought up divorce in the first place. What's most important between two people? It's the push and pull; all feelings are developed through it."
Christopher paused, considering Ivan's words. "Is there any way to save it?"
Ivan's eyes sparkled with a sudden idea. "Play the pity card."
"You think that'll work?" Christopher immediately dismissed the notion. "It won't. She won't buy it."
Ivan persisted, "If the gentle approach doesn't work, then you have to be tough."
Tough? Two years ago, Christopher had pushed Hope to the brink of despair.
Christopher swirled his drink, feeling a sense of helplessness for the first time—he was at a loss on how to navigate her emotions. Yet, the thought of letting her be with Jerry was unbearable.
When I got home, Elissa was half-lying on the couch, playing a game. Seeing me, she was surprised. "Why are you back?"
"Can't I?" I said, casually hanging up my bag and walking over to the washbasin to wash my hands.
Elissa was deeply absorbed in her game. "Doesn't look like Jerry's doing too well. Think his disability's making a huge impact?"
I replied thoughtfully, "He probably isn't truly disabled."
As I retraced my steps, I reflected, "His condition seems more like an injury he's still recovering from."
If Jerry were genuinely disabled, his muscles would have atrophied after two years. But his physique appeared just like any able-bodied person's.
Elissa finished her game and looked up at me again, suddenly changing her expression. "Wait, why did you change your clothes?"
Understanding her confusion, I clarified, "Got soaked in the rain. Had to borrow some clothes from his cousin."
Just then, I remembered I'd left my wet clothes in Jerry's study, discarded haphazardly in my rush to leave.
Elissa nodded, seemingly lost in thought. "Does he know you've already divorced?"
"He knows." I smiled, retrieving a bottle of mineral water from the fridge. "He assumed I'd been Mrs. Valence in the two years and just got divorced."
Elissa's curiosity piqued. "Did you explain?"
"No." I took a sip of the cool water, feeling it soothe my throat, then settled cross-legged on the carpet. "How could I explain? Tell him I grappled with depression and even attempted suicide?"
Many believed my depression stemmed from Jerry. If he knew, it would only burden him with more guilt.
Elissa murmured, "Shouldn't he feel guilty? The guiltier he is, the better for you."
I lowered my gaze. "That's compensation, not affection."
Besides, pulling another soul into my personal abyss was unnecessary.
The next day, I sent the preliminary design draft to Madison's agent's email. The response was swift, unexpectedly from Madison herself.
Madison called, her voice brimming with cheer. "Elena, got your design draft. How about we grab a meal later?"
Despite nearing fifty, Madison exuded a youthful exuberance.
Pausing my work, I chuckled. "Ms. Ortiz, is there something amiss with the draft?"
Madison laughed, her voice rich with warmth. "No, I'm very satisfied with the draft. Continue with your design. I have a flight tonight for a gig, but before I leave, I'd love to have a meal with you. For some reason, I feel a strong connection with you."
"Then I would be honored," I replied, smiling.
Truth be told, I too felt an inexplicable comfort around Madison.
Later that evening, after wrapping up my work, I informed Elissa and left the office with my bag. We decided to have dinner at the same five-star hotel as last time for convenience. Upon arrival, I noticed bodyguards stationed outside, and Madison, along with her agent, were already settled in a private room.
Madison gestured for me to sit to her right. "Order whatever you like."
After greeting them, I settled into my seat and smiled. "Sure. Any dietary restrictions I should know about?"
"No, feel free to order anything," Madison responded, then suddenly slapped her forehead playfully. "Oh, I almost forgot—nothing too spicy. My daughter prefers mild flavors. Her assistant is upstairs helping her pack and will be down soon."
I nodded. "Got it."
With that, I swiftly ordered a selection of mild dishes and handed the menu back to the waiter.
Juniper Miller, Madison’s agent, then handed over her phone. "Madison, take a look at this property. Didn’t Sarah love Maple Valley? How about buying her a unit as a birthday gift?"
Madison's warm demeanor held a touch of playfulness. "That won't do. I personally choose every gift for Sarah."
Realizing they were discussing Madison’s daughter, I chimed in, "Ms. Ortiz, you're so good to your daughter."
Madison's expression turned slightly somber. "I owe her. I was too young back then, often acting on impulse."
Before I could respond, the door to the private room swung open. "Mom." A well-dressed girl entered, her smile bright as she hurried to Madison's side.
Seeing Sarah's face, I was momentarily stunned. Two years ago, she had been 'Bella Harris'. Now, she had become Madison’s daughter?
Madison, worried Sarah might fall, reached out to support her and said gently, "Why are you running so fast? Aren't you afraid of falling?"
"Mom, what about me joining that reality show? Have you and Juniper discussed it?" Sarah hadn't even glanced at me yet, too preoccupied with Madison.
Madison seemed a bit troubled, and Juniper quickly intervened, "Sarah, the entertainment industry isn't as easy as you think. As Madison's daughter, people in the industry will certainly treat you well, but online? The comments can be truly harsh. Many stars have become depressed because of it. With your mom's wealth, there's no need for you to take that risk."
Sarah's defiance was evident. "Let them say what they want. As long as I have my mom’s love, I don't care what others think," she said, her gaze inadvertently landing on me. Her expression shifted to one of shock. "What are you doing here?"
Madison replied with a frown, "She's my dress designer, very young and talented. Do you two know each other?"
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