Chapter 151 Who Dares to Ignore Him
Riley had a keen sense of Donovan's inner musings, a spark of anticipation flickering within her. Yet, as Finley withdrew paper and pen from her bag, that ember of hope dwindled. Masking her disappointment, Riley reassured Donovan with a composed façade, "Don't fret. Finley's progress is nascent and fragile. Her chatter likely emerges when she's truly thrilled. Let's proceed with caution."
Donovan acknowledged her words with a neutral nod, betraying little. In truth, as Riley believed, Finley's newfound ability to communicate marked a promising turn. Donovan sought no more than this, opting to let events unfold naturally.
Time slipped by as Finley scribbled and ruminated, the process of answering their queries unfolding at a leisurely pace. Donovan and Winston offered brief words of encouragement.
Even after the curtain fell on the captivating beluga whale spectacle, the trio of youngsters remained insatiable. Riley saw it was still early, so she decided to continue playing with them.
Donovan didn't mention the purpose of his visit, just followed them around, accompanying the four of them as they almost toured the entire aquarium. During their escapades, the children whisked Riley away, seemingly oblivious to Donovan's presence.
Seeing them having such a good time, a pang of exclusion pricked at Donovan inexplicably. Not only was he ignored by Riley and her little ones, but even Finley seemed to disregard his existence.
Paxton, following orders, didn't disturb them, trailing Donovan with empathy. The sight of Donovan repeatedly falling behind, then striding forth in solitude, tugged at his sympathy.
When had Donovan been subjected to such marginalization? Throughout H City, the mere mention of the Wilder Group's name was enough to command deference from all. Yet, it seemed only these four ahead dared to overlook him.
Donovan could vaguely felt that the ones excluding him were Landon and Winston. Ultimately, it was because of the topic discussed during dinner that day, which had upset them.
Truth be told, he hadn't expected Landon and Winston to still be upset.
Thinking about the reason, Donovan couldn't say anything and just followed them silently.
As twilight settled and the aquarium prepared to close its doors, the children, in their animated vigor, had thoroughly exhausted every delight the aquatic wonderland offered for young hearts. Riley, who had underestimated their stamina, found herself nearly depleted, her own energy waning. Their eventual weariness brought a sense of relief, prompting her to usher them homeward.
Donovan still followed them.
Unperturbed by his presence, Riley presumed Donovan's company was solely for Finley's sake and he would part ways with them soon.
In the underground parking lot, Riley couldn't suppress a flicker of helplessness upon noting Donovan's lingering shadow. "Mr. Wilder, is there something amiss? If not, I'll take the kids home now."
Her query hung in the air, drawing the curious gazes of the trio. Donovan nodded assent. "Just a sec, I've got a little something for Finley in the car."
With those words, he strode towards his vehicle, eliciting a puzzled furrow on Riley's brow. Having cared for Finley for close to a week, she was certain of meeting all the child's needs. Consequently, Donovan's actions struck her as perplexing.
Moments later, Donovan returned with Paxton, both bearing sizable parcels in tow. Riley's brow furrowed in bewilderment. "What's all this?"
Inside the boxes were exclusive robot figurines, cutting-edge miniature cars, and futuristic automaton models—each a prized possession revered by enthusiasts.
As recognition dawned on Riley, suspicion clouded her features. The gifts seemed incongruous for Finley; rather, they bore the mark of Landon and Winston's avid interests.
