Even the deepest love couldn’t withstand persistent indifference and coldness.
I took a deep breath and nodded. ‘Fine, I understand.”
Aly response was so perfunctory that Henry was left confused, assuming I still didn’t believe him.
Sophia, everything I’ve told you is true! If you don’t believe me, come back to Maple Grove with me. I’ll show you myself.”
I shook my head. “No need. I want to go home.”
Once in the car, I closed my eyes, fatigue evident on my face.
Seeing my condition, Billy immediately looked toward his father, pointing at me with his small finger, his eyes asking: Did you make Mommy angry? Henry gave a bitter smile and shook his head, at a loss for words.
Clearly, despite all his explanations, I still believed he was protecting Isabella.
If there were some device in this world that could let people hear one’s true thoughts, Henry would have paid any price to buy one, just so his ex–wife could hear that from the beginning to the end, there had only ever been one name in his heart: Sophia!
Seeing his father’s expression, Billy knew immediately that he had upset me again.
The little boy said nothing, simply moving closer to me, hugging my arm and nestling against it.
Feeling my precious son’s nearness, I forced a smile, pulling him into my arms. My restless heart instantly found comfort. I kissed the top of his round head before closing my eyes again to rest.
Actually…
In that moment, Henry didn’t need to explain anything–he just needed to hold me tight,
to give me a warm embrace. That would have solved everything.
Unfortunately, he didn’t understand my heart. He didn’t realize that love requires mutual desire to work.
Spring brought the revival of all living things.
Alexander knew I was unhappy, and insisted on taking Billy and me fishing during the weekend. After visiting William at the hospital, he drove us toward the lake.
“Sophia, trust me–empty your mind and just enjoy the spring sunshine. I guarantee you’ll feel refreshed after fishing,” he said.
Ever since learning about my divorce from Henry, Alexander had been constantly around, showering me with attention.
We arrived at the lakeside and had just received our fishing gear when I heard Henry’s voice: “Billy, come to Daddy, okay?”
Alexander turned toward the sound, his features contorting with anger when he saw who it was.
Noticing my displeasure as I stood by the car, Alexander complained, “Why is he everywhere? We can’t seem to shake him!”
“Wait here, Sophia. I’ll go tell him to get lost!” But before Alexander could act, Billy had already heard his father’s, call and was eagerly running toward Henry on his short little legs, wiggling his chubby bottom.
Daddy, how did you know we were coming here today?” Billy called out as he ran. Henry bent down to pick him up, smiling. “Take a guess!”
1/2
Chapter 342
The wound on Henry’s right arm had healed, leaving only a crooked, worm–like scar. It wasn’t visible when he wore long sleeves, but was clearly noticeable now in short sleeves, looking quite horrifying.
Although fine movements with that arm were still difficult, he had no problem lifting his son!
Billy was wearing a pink down vest over a black sweater, light gray pants, and camel–colored high–top boots, topped with a fisherman’s hat- looking both handsome and full of energy.
Not wanting Billy to interact with Henry, I waved to him, signaling him to come back.
“Mommy, can I play here for a while?” Billy asked. With extreme reluctance, I replied, “You can play for a bit, but come back soon.”
Children need paternal love, something I couldn’t provide.
So I allowed my son to enjoy some fatherly affection from Henry, not standing in their way.
With my permission, Henry carried Billy to the lakeside pier. He casually picked up some stones from the path and skipped them across the
water.
The stones bounced six or seven times before sinking beneath the surface.
Billy watched in delight, shouting, “Daddy, that’s amazing! I want to learn too!” Henry smiled, pulling the little boy close and guiding his hand.
Meanwhile, Alexander approached Henry, eyeing him sidelong. “Mr. Harding, you seem quite leisurely. What’s the situation? Company troubles all resolved? Finally have time to chase women?”
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