Our Love 34

Chapter 34
Shirley slung her woven bag over her shoulder, while Seraphina Jooped her arm through Shirley’s. They were standing by the curb, waiting for the light to change.
Next to them parked a shiny Rolls-Royce parked with its sleek body. The license plate with five nines was a sign of wealth. even if it was out of state. Passersby gawked at the luxurious car and murmured in awe.
Suddenly, the driver’s door swung open, revealing a middle-aged man dressed in a white shirt and black trousers, complete with white gloves-very businesslike. He had the vibe of a chauffeur but carried himself with an air of sophistication, hinting at his employer’s high standards.
The driver briskly made his way around the front of the car and stood by the back door, waiting for a man in a black shirt who strode over with impressive confidence.
Seraphina paused, momentarily taken aback. This guy, though muddle-aged, exuded an extraordinary presence-steady and composed, with a decisive energy that felt almost palpable. His sharp eyes sparkled with life, and he looked younger than his years. He was clearly a big deal, someone who commanded respect with every move,
But what really caught Seraphina off guard wasn’t just his poise. It was this inexplicable feeling that welled up inside her, a flicker of attraction towards this stranger.
The man, originally focused straight ahead, somehow shifted his gaze to Seraphina and Shirley.
“I need to hit the restroom, Sera. You can head back first. Shirley suddenly piped up, yanking her arm free and hurrying towards a nearby restroom.
“Hey, Mom, I’ll wait for you, Seraphina called after her, but Shirley just tightened her grip on the bag and didn’t reply.
The man’s gaze flicked from Seraphina to Shirley’s back, and he paused for a heartbeat when he noticed the cheap bag on her shoulder. He then turned back and got into the car.
Moments later, the Rolls-Royce glided away, its body reflecting the glow of the streetlights like liquid gold.
After waiting through two traffic lights, Shirley finally returned, looking a bit down.
“Mom, are you not feeling okay?” Seraphina asked, concern creeping into her voice.
“Yeah,” Shirley replied, “just a bit of an upset stomach.”
“Maybe you should take some medicine when we get home, Seraphina said.
They crossed the street and headed into their apartment. Shirley dropped her woven bag by the entrance and plopped. down on the couch, instinctively reaching for the remote but not turning on the TV.
Seraphina went back to her room and mulled over how to tell Shirley she wanted to move out. Lying wasn’t her style, and the lie she was about to tell felt monumental, making her heart race a little.
Outside, the sound of running water filled the air. Shirley was brushing her teeth. After a moment of hesitation, Seraphina opened her door. No matter how much she delayed, she had to bring this up.
The bathroom door was wide open, and Shirley stood at the sink, lost in thought with a toothbrush and toothpaste in hand. but the paste was still untouched. The water overflowed from the cup that had long since filled. Shirley stared at her reflection in the mirror, clearly in another world..
Seraphina gently turned off the tap and asked, “Mom, what’s up She noticed that Shirley seemed a bit off since she
returned from the restroom.
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13:33 Wed, Oct 30
Chapter 34
Shirley snapped back to reality, paused for a second, and then forced a smile. Tm just thinking…we have a billing issue at work, and I can’t figure it out.” She picked up the cup and took a sip, then shoved the toothbrush into her mouth.
“Wait, Mom, you forgot the toothpaste. Seraphina quickly reminded her.
Shirley set down the cup and squeezed some paste onto the brush. She then said to Seraphina, “It’s getting late, Sera. You should go to bed. Do you have an early shift tomorrow?”
“Yeah, Seraphina replied, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, not daring to look at Shirley. “The store offers employees dormitory, and I sometimes need to stay late for inventory. The manager suggested I move into the dorms. When I get off work early. I will come back and hang with you.”
“Oh, okay. Shirley said, showing no signs of resistance. “That’ll save you from those packed buses.”
Seraphina felt the easy agreement was almost too good to be true. Shirley usually worried about her being out alone, yet today she agreed without any objection. Seraphina also noticed Shirley’s mind clearly wandered elsewhere, yet she didn’t press the issue further, anxious that Shirley might suddenly change her mind.
The next morning. Seraphina grabbed her suitcase and headed out. The car picking her up was parked near the bus stop. not far from her apartment. She dodged the acquaintances and quickly hopped in, urging the driver to hit the road.
By the time she arrived at the villa, it was still shy of nine, and Clarence hadn’t left yet. He was lounging in the garden, soaking up the morning sun and fresh air.
As soon as Seraphina stepped through the iron gate, he spotted her. A smirk crept onto Clarence’s lips, like his prized prey
finally
came into view.
“Ms. Johnson, let me help you with your bags, the driver, Bob, said politely.
Thanks. Bob, Seraphina replied.
As Bob took her luggage inside, she hesitated for a moment before striding over to Clarence.
White tables and chairs were set up on the grass, with the morning sun rising in a golden glow. Bathed in the warm light, Clarence wore a white shirt with a couple of buttons undone, revealing a glimpse of his toned chest; his legs crossed in a way that exuded his charm and elegance.
With a playful expression, he leaned on his elbow and watched her approach.
Seraphina, in her open-toed sandals, felt the soft grass tickling her delicate skin with each step. Finally, she reached him, the morning breeze carrying a hint of his refreshing minty scent.
Clarence uncrossed his legs and wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her into his embrace. She then landed on his lap.
Even though they’d been more intirnate before, they were still in public with staff around, and her cheeks flushed as she squirmed to break free.
But Clarence wasn’t having it. He held her tight. After a few fruitless attempts to escape, Seraphina-resigned herself and pouted, “Just let me sit properly”
“Isn’t this comfy?” He shot back with a teasing glint in his eyes.
Seraphina didn’t answer right away but just stared at him.
“Not every woman gets the chance or privilege to sit on my lap, he added, raising an eyebrow
Looking into his eyes, Seraphina couldn’t help but think he had point.
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