Chapter 1061
Janine thought for a moment and concluded she needed nothing. “I’ll find time to return and stay a couple of days soon. I’ll tidy everything up. If I need anything, I’ll bring it back.”
After ending the video call, Skylar checked the bus schedule. An hour remained until her bus. She decided to tidy the house further. When Janine mentioned Finn, Skylar realized she had few memories of him. While tidying, she found an old black-and-white photograph. It depicted a young Finn. She noted how much he resembled Steven. Her parents were a striking pair—handsome and beautiful; many contemporary celebrities would pale in comparison. After careful examination, she placed the photograph in her suitcase. Though her memories of Finn were scant, she recalled Steven and others saying their father had doted on her as a child, even carrying her everywhere. Harvey had been jealous. Once packed, she locked the door and went to the village entrance to await the bus to Liberty County.
While waiting, Natalie called. “Skye, I returned last night. I slept late and just woke. Let’s hang out this weekend after I rest.” “Sure, let’s meet up,” Skylar replied. They chatted briefly before the bus arrived, and Skylar boarded.
Natalie tossed and turned a few times, stifling yawns, before rising. Nothing compared to her own bed. Kate had invited her for lunch. It was already 11:00 am when Natalie washed and changed before leaving. She quickly splashed water on her face, applied a simple skincare routine, and drove to her parents' house. She arrived shortly. Damon opened the door. “Dad, I’m back. You look ten years younger since I left three months ago.” Damon laughed heartily. “Really?” “Of course,” Natalie replied.
Kate, bringing out dishes, overheard and playfully teased Damon. “Ten years younger with that beer belly? Your daughter’s flattering you. Don’t take it seriously. You need a morning jog tomorrow.” Damon rubbed his nose. “That’s not a beer belly. It’s the mark of happiness.”
Chapter 1061
Natalie loved her parents’ banter. “Mom, I smell baked salmon,” she exclaimed, inhaling deeply. Kate chuckled. “You have the best nose. I made all your favorites.” Natalie rushed to kiss Kate. “Mom, I love you! I must have excellent karma to be your daughter. I’m so lucky, so blessed.” “Sweet talker. Wash your hands and eat,” Kate replied. “Okay.”
The three gathered around a table laden with eight dishes and a soup—all Kate’s specialties. Natalie’s mouth watered as she eagerly filled her bowl with steaming soup. She ate heartily. Damon and Kate exchanged worried yet affectionate glances. Natalie wouldn’t have to work so hard if she were still married to Jeremy. They noticed her weight loss after three months away. A knock came. “I’ll get it,” Damon said, rising. He opened the door, speechless at the sight of the visitor. “Jeremy…”