Chapter 137 Still Longing for a Home?
Chloe felt a chill run through her all afternoon. She knew one thing for sure: Donovan's handling of James had nothing to do with her. While other departments were abuzz with discussions about James, the audit department remained as silent as ever.
After work, Chloe went to Maple Valley People's Hospital. Jacob was standing at Amelia's ward door. Upon seeing Chloe, he glanced behind her, a hint of malice in his eyes. "Where's Donovan?" he asked, as if hoping for his absence.
"He had something important to attend to," Chloe replied before entering Amelia's room. Brayden was by Amelia's bedside, engaged in a seemingly friendly conversation. Chloe was relieved to see Amelia looking well.
"Congratulations, Chloe. Amelia's better now," Brayden said.
‘Of course,’ Chloe thought, recalling Jacob's earlier words. Brayden turned to Chloe and asked, "I heard about Ann's resignation. Was it because of Ellie?"
"Don't listen to Jacob's nonsense. I hired Ellie based on her qualifications, not because of you. Focus on yourself," Brayden said sternly. "As for Ann, she's talented, but we had ideological differences."
Though Brayden's words seemed reassuring, Chloe knew better.
"It does matter!" Jacob suddenly interjected from behind. "Chloe, if Donovan doesn't show up, you should consider marrying me," he said with a sly smile.
Chloe ignored Jacob and sat beside Amelia's bed. "Mom," she began, "our company's financial director was taken away by the authorities today. It's a big deal, but he didn't come to see you."
Amelia sighed inwardly, knowing he had already visited.
Brayden, upon hearing about the director, saw an opportunity for Ann. Ann had left the law firm due to Ellie's constant threats of suing Chloe, which put Brayden in a difficult position. Despite being able to handle the situation, he didn't want Chloe to be involved in any legal troubles.
The doctor had examined Amelia and predicted her discharge in ten days.
On Friday afternoon, Chloe returned to Hillside Villa. Donovan was already home, sitting on the sofa. “You still remember you have a home?” Donovan remarked.
"Yes, for my mom's sake," Chloe replied, feeling a tinge of resentment due to Jacob's words. Although Donovan was her main financial support, Amelia still saw him as a son-in-law.
Chloe's grandfather asked about Amelia's condition, and Chloe happily shared the news of her imminent discharge. "Good deeds bring good rewards. Donovan, your mother-in-law has been lying in bed for so many years. Aren't you going to visit her?" the grandfather asked with a frown.
"Okay," Donovan replied, but Chloe could sense his indifference. Though saddened, Chloe knew she had no right to make demands. Donovan's thoughts were inscrutable, as evidenced by his handling of James.
Chloe, feeling guilty for not being home for several days, went to the kitchen to cook. Seeing the dish, Donovan asked, "Do you really like cooking this?"
Chloe, who hadn't paid much attention to Donovan recently, felt a pang of longing for Todd. She met Donovan's gaze. "You used to like it, right? I'm good at making it too," Chloe said, hoping for a smile.
Donovan remained silent, focusing on his meal. He used to find Chloe's cooking delicious, but now it tasted bittersweet.
"Did you like this dish before, or did you start liking it later?" Chloe asked, trying to lighten the mood.
"Before what?" Donovan's voice was low and steady, suppressing his anger.
"I mean, before you started your business," Chloe clarified.
"I liked it since I was a child. So, are you saying you won't make it anymore?" Donovan asked, his tone harsh.
"Donovan, can't you be more polite?" Chloe's grandfather reprimanded him.
Donovan put down his bowl, no longer in the mood to eat, and went upstairs. Chloe wondered what she had done to upset him.