Chapter 140 Patience is Key
After departing from Riley's house, Catherine mulled over the situation during her drive home and resolved to call Hollis.
On the other side of the city, Hollis was surprised to see Catherine's number flashing on her phone so early in the morning.
"Hollis, I spoke with Donovan," Catherine began, her tone businesslike. "Regarding your concern that Donovan might want to break off the engagement, rest assured, he won't bring it up again." Though this was merely Catherine's directive, Donovan had not objected, so she felt confident in her assertion.
Hearing this, Hollis felt a surge of joy. "Really, Auntie?"
Feigning a note of concern, she added, "But what about Riley? She seems close to Donovan, and Finley appears fond of her..."
At the mention of Riley, Catherine's voice hardened. "Don't worry about her. Donovan's future wife will be you, and you alone! As for Finley, remember she's still a child. You need to be more patient with her. We'll let this incident slide, but you must never lay a hand on her again!"
Hollis replied with calculated obeisance, "Auntie, you have my word. I'll treat Finley as my own daughter and won't harm her in any way."
As they continued speaking, Hollis couldn't shake the unease she felt knowing that Finley had been staying with Riley for the past few days. She inquired, "By the way, has Finley come home yet? I want to find a time to apologize to her in person."
Catherine's tone grew colder. "Not yet. I wanted to bring her back, but Finley's condition is still unstable. Staying with Riley seems beneficial for her recovery. Once she's better, I'll bring her back."
Upon hearing this, a flicker of cold resolve flashed in Hollis's eyes.
Previously, hesitated to marry Hollis due to Finley's obvious dislike for her. Now, with Finley growing closer to Riley, there was a genuine possibility that Donovan might choose Riley over Hollis to ensure Finley's happiness.
The more Hollis dwelled on this, the more resentment simmered within her. But for the moment, she had no choice but to depend on Catherine. Her next words came out with exaggerated docility, "Understood, Auntie. Finley's health is the priority."
Catherine felt a surge of relief at Hollis's seemingly considerate response and offered earnest advice, "Hollis, to achieve your goals, you must have patience. Do you understand what I mean?"
Hollis replied patiently, "I understand, Auntie. Don't worry."
Catherine nodded in satisfaction, "I'll arrange a meeting with your parents soon to finalize your marriage. Don't rush; wait for the right moment."
Hollis's eyes brightened, and the gloom in her heart dissipated. She agreed with a smile.
That evening, Riley went to the kindergarten as scheduled to collect the three children. To her surprise, Donovan was already there when she arrived.
Contrary to her expectation that Donovan might stay for dinner like the night before, he merely dropped the children off at the door, citing other commitments, and left promptly.
When they entered, Olivia had already prepared dinner. Riley dined with the three little ones and afterward, spent time playing with them downstairs before ushering them to bed.
Having tucked Landon and Winston into bed, Riley returned to her room. Olivia had already bathed Finley, who now sat on the bed in adorable bunny pajamas, resembling a plush toy, and waiting eagerly for her return.
As soon as Riley entered, Finley beamed a sweet smile and stretched her arms wide for a hug. Riley approached and scooped Finley into her embrace. The child nestled obediently, arms entwining around Riley's neck, her soft cheek pressing against Riley's, causing Riley's heart to overflow with warmth and tenderness.
