Chapter 144 His Dilemma
She was genuinely beautiful—a beauty unlike any he had seen.
Just looking at her seemed to cleanse his soul, bringing peace to his heart.
When the fireworks concluded around eleven, the kids were exhausted. Eula took them inside to bed, while Judson stayed out in the yard, a cigarette between his fingers.
The mountains were serene at night, save for the occasional laughter drifting from the hot springs across the ridge—other than that, silence reigned supreme.
Myles stood next to him, gazing at the starry sky, keeping him company.
Out of nowhere, Judson asked, "Myles, what do you think is stronger, love or family?"
He wanted to marry her, even though she had a child, and the fact that she had a child did not bother him at all.
But Grandpa's health was failing; he could go at any time.
He couldn’t bring himself to defy Grandpa, which left him feeling conflicted.
He wanted to make her happy, yet he couldn't offer her a formal commitment.
Myles found the issue challenging and responded, "I guess it's family ties."
Romantic love may waver, but familial bonds are always strong and unchanging.
Judson took a deep drag of his cigarette, remaining silent.
Myles observed Judson, sensing an aura of discontent, but he couldn't pinpoint what was on Judson’s mind. He didn't dare to ask.
The next day, they returned to the city.
The van stopped on Snow Street, and Myles opened the door for them. Dewitt got out first, then reached out to help Angie.
After the three kids stepped out, Eula followed.
Judson was seated by the window on the second row. He rolled down the window, revealing his handsome profile.
Eula said, "Judson, thanks for taking us out."
The kids echoed, "Thank you, Mr. Nash!"
Only then did Judson turn to glance at them, speaking in a subdued tone, "Don’t mention it. Just work hard, Miss Lowe; consider that your thanks to me."
Eula nodded, understanding his implied message.
"I got it, Judson. Goodbye!"
As the car drove off, the children entered the house, and Eula started walking back when Johnny approached her.
"Eula, when are you going to pay back the loan? It's been two weeks, and the company is pressing us."
Eula suddenly remembered, "John, I'm so sorry! I'll check if the house has sold, and if so, we'll transfer the money."
John's expression was strained. "Eula, perhaps you're not aware, but if you don’t pay on time as per the contract, the interest will pile up."
Eula was aware of the interest, "Alright, we'll settle the debt by the end of this week."
John breathed a sigh of relief, "Good, I'll let the company know. Don't forget."
Eula gratefully responded, "Thanks so much, John!"
Once home, she texted Darcy.
"Darcy, have you sold the house? They're demanding the $500,000, due this week."
After sending the message, with no immediate reply, she assumed Darcy was sleeping and didn’t want to disturb her.
Eula changed into a black business suit jacket, a plaid miniskirt, fishnet stockings, and black boots.
She checked her reflection in the mirror. The outfit made her look much younger.
Dewitt came into the room and reminded her, "Mom, classes start today. Don't forget."
Grabbing her bag, she approached her son. "I'm getting ready for class. I won’t let you down."
