Jessica’s unfiltered affection pierced Maxine’s defenses.

Maxine smoothed Jessica’s flyaway curls. “I want that too, my sweetheart.”

11

Jessica giggled, her big eyes crinkling into half–moons with happiness. Maxine’s throat tightened. Urban’s words shed in

her mind.

On the way home, Maxine messaged Urbon. She epted his so–called “help.”

No heart is carved from stone. At first, Maxine had only adopted Jessica out of guilt toward Ivanna, wanting her to have someone to rely on.

But gradually, Maxine developed real affection for Jessica. Maybe they were destined to be family, which was why she’d adopted Jessica without hesitation.

Upon arriving home, Maxine received a reply from Winston, inviting her to meet over the weekend toplete formalities.

Maxine texted him back for confirmation. Then she sighed, “Things seemed to be spiraling beyond my control. At least Jessica was safe, for now!

But then she remembered what Sebastian had told her that night–Many in Gludon’s top–tier society now knew about her impending divorce and the adopted orphan.

Sooner orter, Gabriel would hear about it. ‘Maybe he already knew and was just waiting for the right moment?‘ Maxine thought.

Lost in thought, Maxine paused. ‘Logically, Gabriel had no reason to aim at Jessica–Ivanna was gone, Kathleen had destroyed the evidence, and all threats to him were eliminated. With that, she forced herself to rx.

Over the weekend, Maxine signed Urban’s contract but didn’t rush toplete thew firm hiring procedures–she hadn’t officially left her old firm yet.

Weekends weren’t suitable for work anyway. With time to spare, Maxine took Jessica to a nearby mall.

Maxine has been extremely busytely. She’d been meaning to buy new clothes for Jessica, and today was finally the chance.

Twenty minutes in, Jessica yawned dramatically. Her eyelids drooped, and she was on the verge of falling asleep.

Maxine led her to a nearby café. “Are you tired, Jessica? Should we go home?”

Jessica’s eyes snapped open as she waved her hands. “Not tired, Auntie! I can keep shopping with you!”

Maxine smiled. “It’s okay, Jessica. Today bis /ball about you. If you’re tired, we can go home-”

“Maxine?!b” /bbA /bsharp voice cut through the chatter.

Maxine turned to bsee /ba woman in a neon tracksuit and silver–white hair–Valerie Mason, Sebastian’s cousin.

Over the years, Maxine had grown used to Valerie’s entric style. Now she was just surprised to see her here.

Frowning, Maxine asked.“Valerie? What are you doing here?b” /b

But Valerie ignored the question, gazing at bJessica/b.

“Valerie.” Maxine stepped in front of Jessica. “Shopping alone?”

17:13 Wed, 18 Jun O

Valerie rarely went anywhere without a crowd of friends.

Valerie smirked. “Nah. Brought Brian.”

As she spoke, a boy stomped out of the restroom, scowling. “Auntie, this ce is bgross/bb! /bLet’s go home!”