Chapter 292: A Tight Embrace
Hayley’s POV:
Benjamin replied, “I don’t remember.” Looking at his indifferent expression, I could tell he was being honest. My jealousy gradually faded. “Alright, it’s almost time. Let’s start the fireworks.”
Benjamin glanced at the clock. “Okay, just two more minutes. Let’s get ready.” He grabbed a lighter and began to ignite the fireworks. The yard filled with the crackling sound of fireworks, followed by a loud bang as they shot into the sky, bursting into beautiful blooms of light.
Benjamin and I stood side by side, watching the spectacular display. Without realizing it, we leaned closer to each other. When the show ended, I turned to him and said, “Happy New Year.”
Benjamin reached out and hugged me. “Happy New Year.” We held each other tightly, unsure how much time passed before we finally let go.
“Let’s go to bed. We’ll have to wake up early tomorrow.” Benjamin took my hand, and we walked inside, each heading to our separate rooms. That night, I fell into a deep, peaceful sleep.
The next morning, I woke up early, feeling joyful knowing my grandparents were here with me. I eagerly went downstairs. “Happy New Year, Grandma! Happy New Year, Grandpa!” I greeted my grandparents with a big smile, and just as I did, the butler called for us to come to breakfast.
But as I was walking to the dining room, my phone rang. After answering the call, my mood immediately turned serious. Benjamin, who had just come downstairs, noticed my change in demeanor and asked with concern, “What’s wrong?”
I didn’t respond. Instead, I turned to walk toward the door. “Grandma, I need to go out for a bit. I’ll be back later.” Benjamin, clearly worried, followed me outside. “Hayley, where are you going?”
Benjamin heard this and immediately grabbed the car keys. “Get in the car, I’ll drive you.” Immediately after, I got in the car. Benjamin started the engine, heading straight to Christine’s house.
When we arrived, the house was full of people. Christine was surrounded by her family, asking her one after another. “Christine, I’m your mom. You don’t remember anything?” “I’m your dad! Do you remember me?”
Christine looked around at everyone, wary, and shook her head. Her family sighed in helplessness. Her mother, with tears in her eyes, gently held Christine’s hand. “It’s okay, even if you don’t remember. The most important thing is that you’re safe and back with us.”
Christine looked at her mother as if she were a stranger. Frowning, she impatiently said, “Can you stop crying?” She pulled her hand away coldly, then asked, “Are you my family?”
Seeing her respond, my heart was full of confusion and worry. I quickly walked toward her. “Christine?” When I saw Christine standing there, unharmed, my heart surged with emotion. I rushed forward and hugged her tightly. “Christine, you’re finally back.”
Christine looked at me, clearly confused. “Huh? I don’t know you. Can you please let go of me?”