Chapter 123

Cheryl lounged on the couch while Michael scurried around, fetching her water. “Mike, would you like a little brother or sister? I could make that happen,” Cheryl joked.

Michael said, “I like puppies, Aunt Cheryl. Can you give me one?”

Cheryl chuckled. “Why do you want a puppy?”

“So I can play with it when Mom’s gone,” Michael explained. Cheryl’s teasing smile faded, and she patted his head softly.

In the afternoon, Teresa returned home, arms laden with bags. New Year’s Day was approaching, and she had received gifts from clients and Benny. She handed a few bags to Cheryl.

Meanwhile, Michael crouched on the floor, pointing at a box of chocolates. “Mommy, this is from Bunny!” he exclaimed.

Teresa spotted Benny’s name on the box. “Yep, those are from him.”

“Bunny? Who’s that?” Cheryl asked curiously.

“He’s a friend of mine—Donald’s too. The rich guy I told you about,” Teresa answered. “He’s a lawyer. His mom owns a law firm and his dad’s a high-ranking official, though I’m not entirely sure what kind. Regardless, he’s never had to worry about money.”

“Is he handsome?” Cheryl asked as she and Michael began eating chocolates.

“Yeah, he’s pretty handsome and quite wild too,” Teresa said.

Teresa chatted before heading out. The holiday season meant a flurry of gift-giving, and she had to reciprocate the gifts she’d received. Earlier, Peter, Jonathan’s former employer, had sent a beautifully wrapped holiday package to her office. Teresa was pleasantly surprised by it and noted that there were more gifts than usual this year.

On her way out, her phone rang—Miriam was calling to ask if Benny had given her a gift.

“Of course, Benny never misses a chance to give gifts to his friends. He’s always so generous,” Teresa replied.

“Yeah, he also gave me a lot—over three thousand dollars’ worth of chocolates! But I don’t like chocolates, so I’ll pass them to…Edward instead?” Teresa suggested.

Miriam chuckled. “Why didn’t I think of that? Thanks!”

Teresa ended the call and stopped by the hospital on her way back to pick up Cheryl’s prenatal medication. Teresa’s days were always filled with tasks. Jennifer was also on shift that day, and Teresa spotted her sipping coffee at the counter.

When Jennifer looked up and smiled, Teresa was caught off guard. It was the first time she had seen Jennifer without her mask. Teresa found herself studying Jennifer’s face.

Jennifer smiled nervously and touched her face. “Why are you staring at me like that?”

“You look familiar,” Teresa said. “Have we met before, Dr. Nelson?”

Jennifer shook her head. “No, I don’t think so. By the way, do you know someone named Donald?”

Teresa froze. ‘I do. Why’s she asking about Donald?’

“Donald’s a junior I met during my postgraduate years. We were talking recently, and your name came up. It seems that his family doesn’t know about your child,” Jennifer said.

Teresa panicked and grabbed Jennifer’s arm. “Did you tell him?”

Sensing her panic, Jennifer assured her, “No, I didn’t mention anything at all. So, are you keeping Michael a secret from your ex and his family?”

Teresa felt guilt creeping in as she explained, “I have my reasons. I only found out I was pregnant after getting divorced. I decided it was best to raise the child alone without involving my ex.”

“I see.” Jennifer thought, ‘Just as I expected, she’s worried her ex might try to get custody. Silly girl, what’s there to be afraid of?’

“I have a favor to ask, Dr. Nelson,” Teresa said. “The next time you talk to Donald, please don’t bring my name up or mention that I have a son. Please.”

Jennifer felt sympathetic. “You don’t need to beg. Of course, I’ll keep your secret, but you’ll have to pay me.”

Teresa was taken aback. “Dr. Nelson, how could you?”

“I’m not asking for money!” Jennifer laughed. “Just invite me over for a meal. You moved, so I don’t even know where you live now.”

Relief washed over Teresa. “All right, but don’t blame me if the food’s terrible. I’m not exactly a chef.”

“I’ll help you out,” Jennifer offered.

They chatted a lot on their way back to Teresa’s place. Teresa talked about her company and how business was thriving, but Jennifer sensed that she was probably exhausted from managing a full plate.

Chapter 123

They discussed various topics, such as Michael and Teresa’s company, but steered clear of family-related matters.

When they arrived, Cheryl looked up from the table cluttered with takeout containers. “Finally, Teresa! Mike and I are starving,” she complained.

Jennifer greeted Cheryl, and Teresa informed her that Jennifer would be joining them for dinner.

Jennifer took off her coat and rolled up her woolen sleeves. “Since both of you can’t cook, just sit tight. I’ll make some fresh ravioli.”

In the kitchen, Jennifer focused on kneading the dough and rolling it out perfectly while Teresa helped by washing the vegetables.

Michael leaned against the doorframe, observing Jennifer. She waved him over. “You’re Michael, right?”

“How do you know my name?” Michael asked.

“Your mom told me all about you,” Jennifer said. Despite not being particularly fond of kids, she couldn’t help but like Michael. He was Teresa’s son, after all, and Jennifer adored her sister and everything related to her.

Michael rested his cheeks on his hands. “Lady, you kind of look like my mom.”

Jennifer’s hands paused mid-motion.

Cheryl, passing by to grab a drink, overheard Michael’s comment and gave both Teresa and Jennifer a careful look. Cheryl had only ever seen Jennifer in a mask that concealed much of her face. However, as Cheryl studied them closely, she couldn’t help but notice their resemblance. “Actually, you two do have some similar features,” she remarked.

Teresa raised an eyebrow and looked at Jennifer, who was still making ravioli. “Do we?” she asked, running a hand over her chin.

Without looking away from her task, Jennifer said, “I think I’m not quite as pretty as Teresa.”

“Mommy’s the prettiest!” Michael bragged, shaking his head proudly before darting off to watch TV.

Cheryl stroked her chin, glanced at Teresa’s chest, and commented, “Teresa’s got a better figure.”

Holding the rolling pin above her head, Teresa threatened playfully, “Watch out, or I’ll hit you!”

Cheryl said, “I’ve always wondered—does breastfeeding make your chest sag? You’re still as curvy as ever. I’m worried my body won’t look good after giving birth!”

Jennifer responded, “That won’t happen if you breastfeed properly.” She glanced over at Teresa. “Did you experience any swelling while nursing?”

Teresa turned bright red. “I don’t really remember.”

Cheryl said, “I suddenly feel Jonathan’s getting the short end of the stick. He could’ve at least pitched in.”

Teresa grabbed a leafy vegetable from the counter and shoved it into Cheryl’s mouth. “Zip it!” she snapped.

Cheryl spat the vegetable out and muttered, “It’s tough handling everything on your own without a husband to help.” With that, she exited the kitchen. She noticed Michael tapping away on his phone but didn’t know who he was texting.

Chapter 124