Chapter 402
He looked at her with immense tenderness. “Your mother entrusted you to me.
“From now on, Jojo, I will love you. I will make you happy. Come with me!”
He held her in his arms, with utmost tenderness.
The village in her eyes grew smaller and smaller until it completely disappeared.
The sun slowly rose from the horizon. A ray of sunlight shone through, enveloping Josie, making her feel warm all over.
Then, Josie woke up from the heat.
She opened her eyes to meet Sean’s affectionate gaze. “Good morning. What do you want for breakfast? I’ll make it for you.”
In that moment, Josie felt reborn. She said goodbye to her past self, and her life would never be the same.
Josie felt like a princess, pampered by Sean all day. By afternoon, she found it a bit overwhelming.
She said, “Sean, I’m not that fragile. I can still drink water by myself.”
Sean retrieved the glass, and just as he was about to speak, Josie’s phone rang. It was Anna.
It was Friday, and Josie had no classes. She spent the whole day at home with Sean and had forgotten to check the online news.
“Anna?” Josie was a bit nervous.
Anna’s laughter rang out.
She said, “Good news. The paper’s impact after publication was even better than I expected.
“Professionals are already contacting the author. I heard they want to cite his research findings.
“Given this situation, why don’t you persuade your friend to submit the materials for the competition?”
Josie thought, ‘Oh, right, how could I have forgotten about this?
‘If Natalie can participate, why can’t Ian?’
She said, “Thank you, Anna. I understand. I’ll talk it over with my friend and treat you to a meal later!”
Anna laughed again.
She said, “Why are you being so polite? You’ve already helped me a great deal by doing the Reedshaw Group’s special topic for me.
“You often give me free acupuncture, which I truly appreciate.
“We are friends. From now on, feel free to reach out anytime you need help. There’s no need to be so formal.”
“Okay,” Josie felt a slight urge to smile. She was a direct person who didn’t mince words or waste time on pleasantries.
She said, “Then I won’t be polite. Anna, if you need anything, just let me know.
“You’re right, we are friends. Let’s look out for each other from now on.”
After hanging up the phone, Josie beamed. “Let’s go out for dinner tonight. It’s my treat.”
“Should we invite more people? I’ll book a private room. How about at Delicate Inn? I remember their duck is good, and you like it.” Sean took out his phone.
Josie thought, ‘Delicate Inn? Isn’t that where Natalie’s celebration party is?’
Josie smiled. “Natalie’s celebration dinner is booked there. Wouldn’t it be too intentional if we went?”
“Which private room is she in? How about we book the one next to hers?” Sean started calling without hesitation.
Josie looked amused. “Are you serious? It’s this late already. You won’t be able to book a private room.”
“Don’t worry, I can book it. Just gather the people. I’ll book a large private room with two tables!” Sean looked serious. He didn’t seem to be joking.
Josie thought, ‘Alright, as long as he’s happy. Besides, Ian did well on his thesis. Why shouldn’t we celebrate?
‘If Natalie finds this intentional, then so be it. Nobody said only Natalie gets to show off!’
Josie called to invite people. Although the invitation was sudden, it was a Friday night. When people heard it was to celebrate Ian’s success, they immediately agreed.
When they arrived, the attendees were enough to fill two tables.
Even Colby came with Zoey. “I heard Zoey say Josie is treating, so I figured I had to come for this meal!”
“Of course. You are surely invited!” Sean ushered everyone into the private room.
Josie went to the entrance to meet Joseph and his group.
Except for Ian, the other two had companions.
Seeing Claire next to Tripp, Josie paused for a moment.
“What are you looking at? Don’t you recognize me?” Claire walked up and linked arms with her.
She said, “Come on, let’s go in. Tell me, did you suddenly invite us for a meal because you’re moving in with Sean?”