Chapter 167 Don't Interfere in This Matter
Riley observed Finley's behavior with a hint of confusion playing in her mind. Recently, Finley had been hanging out a lot with Landon and Winston. The kids seemed to have a telepathic connection with her, easily deciphering her motives through subtle cues. Strangely though, Riley struggled a bit to grasp Finley's intentions.
Amidst this puzzlement, Finley grew visibly anxious as Riley failed to catch on. The little girl, with a cute pout, pointed at herself, trying to convey her message more clearly. Riley, now even more bewildered, furrowed her brow in confusion.
"Mama, Finley's saying she built that part all by herself," Landon chimed in, coming to the rescue of the befuddled Riley.
The revelation finally clicked in Riley's mind, a light of realization dawning. "Finley, you're a superstar! You nailed it!"
Deeply touched by Riley's words of praise, Finley's eyes lit up like stars, her cheeks blushing with excitement as she sneaked a glance at Donovan.
Donovan, meeting his daughter's eyes brimming with anticipation, understood her unspoken joy but found it challenging to dive into the conversation. Eventually, he acknowledged with a nod, "Impressive stuff, Finley."
Finley beamed slowly, showcasing a pair of adorable dimples.
Witnessing his daughter's elation, Donovan's usually composed expression flickered with a complex mix of emotions. It was evident that Finley radiated pure joy whenever she was around Riley.
Winston, engrossed in building Legos well into the night, wasn't content with his creation. He tugged on Riley's hand, whining, "Mom, this castle's too basic. Can we get something more challenging?"
Riley hesitated momentarily, stealing a quick glance at Finley. Just as she was about to suggest that the boys should consider their little sister's condition, Winston interjected, "Finley's a Lego master too! She's almost as good as me and Landon!"
Riley, taken aback, glanced at Landon in disbelief. Landon vigorously affirmed Winston's words.
Finley, oozing confidence, patted her chest assuredly, her eyes brimming with expectation.
Witnessing this display of camaraderie, Riley nodded decisively, "Alright, new Legos for everyone tomorrow."
The children brimmed with excitement. Landon and Winston, in particular, bombarded Riley with requests for specific Lego sets they desired.
Donovan stood at the doorway, silently observing the quartet's joyous interaction, a hint of a smile playing on his lips as he remained wordless for a while.
As bedtime approached, the kids reluctantly bid their father goodnight. Riley, considerate of Finley's bond with Donovan, escorted the little girl to see off her father.
During his return journey, Donovan's mood remained somber, his thoughts clouded with a hint of melancholy.
Upon arriving home and spotting a figure in the living room, a furrow creased Donovan's brow involuntarily.
"So, you still remember the way back!" Catherine scolded, her displeasure evident.
Initially intending to leverage this opportunity to secure Donovan's agreement to the engagement with Hollis, Catherine's plans had been disrupted by Donovan's departure with Riley, and in such an intimate manner, no less!
Since their departure, Catherine's countenance had soured, enduring the party until its conclusion before swiftly heading home. Assuming Donovan should have returned by now, Catherine grew increasingly agitated, waiting for over an hour.
'What were they up to at Riley's place for so long!' Her demeanor darkened at the thought.
Equally unpleased with Catherine's actions that evening, Donovan's tone turned frosty, "Mother, it's late. What brings you here?"
Catherine's expression darkened upon hearing his tone. "Can't a mother visit without an agenda? Do you realize the embarrassment Hollis endured because you vanished like that? Unacceptable!"
The mention of Hollis triggered Donovan's icy resolve, his voice frigid. "I've made it clear, stay out of this. I'll manage it on my own. If there's nothing else, please leave."
With those final words, Donovan ascended the stairs, leaving behind a tense atmosphere in his wake.
