Chapter 196
She waited in the chair, only to see Ivan frown and then hang up the phone with displeasure.
"He refused to apologize, didn't he?" she said with a suppressed laugh.
A frosty veil seemed to cloak Ivan's countenance.
"Gifted kids live in their own bubble. They can be resistant to conventional expectations and don't easily yield," Haley commented with a hint of empathy, “Not every kid is as approachable and understanding as my son Todd. Maybe it's worth spending some more time on parenting, Mr. Winston."
Ivan remained quiet.
Approachable? Understanding? Was she really talking about that shrewd little guy, Todd?
"I'll ensure he apologizes to you in person," Ivan stated firmly, gathering some documents from the table before leaving.
Haley shrugged nonchalantly. Kids make mistakes; it happens, and she was generous with her forgiveness.
As long as it didn't become a pattern.
After her workday, Haley went to pick up her children from preschool. With her two little ones by her side, she made her way to a downtown hotel.
She was supposed to meet with Albert last time, but they had to reschedule due to Owen's car accident. Albert's flight was leaving at nine tonight, and she needed to seal their deal before he departed.
The trio took the elevator up and knocked on the door of the executive suite.
An elderly voice from inside beckoned, "Come in."
Haley opened the door and walked in with her children.
"Ms. DeRoss, it's been too long, you're looking even more vibrant than before."
Albert, a lively man in his seventies with a full head of white hair, seemed to defy his age. He approached with a warm smile, ready to embrace Haley, but her son Todd stepped in front of her.
After a brief pause, Albert laughed heartily, “Is this the Todd you've mentioned? I almost didn't believe it, but here you are, and this lovely girl must be Angela, right?"
Haley laughed, “If it weren't for these two, why would I miss the chance to study with you?"
Three years ago, when the twins were just one year old and often sick, Haley's life was a balancing act between caring for them and keeping her job. Piano lessons were out of the question.
She had to turn down Albert's offer back then. But he was persistent, repeatedly trying to persuade her over the course of two years.
It wasn't until she enrolled at Harvard that Mr. Albert finally relented. This was their first meeting in a year.
"What's the occasion for your visit? Changed your mind about the lessons?" Albert asked as he settled into the sofa, “Your children seem well-mannered. I bet they wouldn't mind if you resumed your piano studies. Isn't that right, Todd?"
Despite the fact that it was their first encounter, Todd appeared to like Albert. With confidence, he answered, "I support whatever Mom decides."
"Ha! Such a gentleman. Ms. DeRoss, you've got a charmer here," Albert complimented.
Haley beamed with pride, “Todd's a smart one, for sure. But today, I'm here to introduce Angela to you, Mr. Albert."
She guided Angela gently forward, explaining softly, "She's a bit shy and might come across as aloof. I hope you'll understand."
Albert, with his years of experience, had a soft spot for sweet-natured kids. He reached out, drawing Angela closer without a fuss. Angela, perhaps sensing this was the piano teacher her mom had spoken of, approached Albert without resistance this time.
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