Even after Her Death
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+8 Pearls
Chapter 520 New Year Reunion
By referring himself as the older cousin of my children, Luke made it clear he’d moved past what we once had.
Luke’s life had undergone a radical transformation since my rebirth a year ago. Where I once thought fate was unfair, I now see that karma keeps meticulous accounts of every debt.
His declining fortunes were a testament to this truth–what you owe must be paid back, and he was living proof. Though still alive, he was a mere shadow of his former self.
Not long after Luke left, Bolton Residence welcomed more guests.
I hadn’t expected them to visit. When Hugo informed me of the guests arriving in the courtyard, seeing Philippa brought tears to my eyes.
“Philippa.”
Philippa had regained her slim figure, looking remarkably youthful post–childbirth. Despite being 40, she appeared rejuvenated, like an older sister rather than a middle–aged woman.
She enveloped me in a hug, patting my back gently. “You scared me half to death!”
“Sorry, Philippa. I promised to be there for you during your delivery”
So much had happened that I couldn’t keep my promise.
Philippa stroked my hair. “As long as you’re okay, I’m relieved. They kept me in the dark; I only recently learned what you went through.”
She was thrilled to hear I was back and rushed over to see me.
Tears flowed down my cheeks. “I’m fine now. I’m sorry for worrying you. I heard you had twin boys; I haven’t seen them yet.”
Philippa blushed and cleared her throat. “The babies are too young to travel. Nicholas is at home taking care of them.”
Feeling a bit nosy, I asked, “Philippa, you chose Nicholas…
Before I could finish, Bill walked in, laden with bags.
I stood there, stunned. This love triangle hadn’t reached its conclusion?
Nicholas was home with the kids while Bill accompanied Philippa to see me. It seemed they had found a way to make things work.
Bill, oblivious to my thoughts, set down the bags and gave me a once–over. “You doing okay?”
Our relationship was complex. Though he considered me his daughter, we hadn’t grown up together, so his concern lacked the depth of a father–daughter bond But I knew he cared, and that was enough for me.
“Yes, I’m standing right here, aren’t I?”
12:01 Tue, Feb 25 G AD.
Chapter 520 New Year Reunion
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+8 Pearls
Zoey had likely given him a colorful account of my ordeal. Their expressions–relieved and content- suggested that dwelling on who was with whom seemed unnecessary. As long as everyone was happy, nothing else mattered.
“I brought you some local specialties.”
I braced myself, expecting more lavish gifts like jewelry, typical of Bill’s generosity.
He began unpacking the bags. “This is honey I made myself. I wanted to bring some chickens, ducks, and fruit, but customs wouldn’t allow it.”
I laughed. It truly was a homely gift, and somehow, it felt more meaningful.
Bill, who had once excessively pursued power and wealth, was now returning to a simpler life.
I held Philippa’s hand. “Philippa, you must be exhausted from the trip. Come inside and rest.”
I looked at Damian, and he nodded without needing further instruction. “Mrs. Chloe, I’ll make the arrangements.”
The servants carefully stored Bill’s gifts. Philippa was eager to see the babies.
A cheerful voice called from the doorway, “Hey, Mom, Dad! You came without telling me. Am I no longer your daughter?”
I froze. Zoey had returned to the country after my spirit had left my body, staying with me for half a month. She felt guilty, immersing herself in childcare during that time. In a way, she was half the mom of these babies; they adored her.
“Zoey.”
She had come without warning, rushing to see me upon hearing I had woken.
“Chloe.”
Zoey dashed over and hugged me tightly.
“You’re finally awake! If you hadn’t woken up, I wouldnt know what to do.”
I wiped her tears. “It’s the New Year. No tears.”
Zoey nodded, smiling through her tears. “Okay, no tears. So, where are Rocky and Susie?”
“Call them ‘Rocky‘ and ‘Susie‘ and we’re no longer friends.”
“But they’re so tough. Thinking about it still gives me chills.”
“It’s over now. From here on, everything will be smooth sailing.”
Zoey grinned. “You’re right.”
She let go of me and ran to greet Bill and Philippa, “Da, Mom.”
Philippa looked at her with tenderness, and Bill’s face softened, patting her head gently. “That rascal hasn’t been giving you trouble has he?”
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12:01 Tue, Feb 25 GD.
Chapter 520 New Year Reunion
“No, I’m the one giving him a hard time.”
+8 Pearls
Philippa chuckled. “Good. If he ever does, just tell us. No matter how far away, your dad will come and twist his head off.”
Clearly, their relationship had improved since the divorce. After years of being partners, friends, and family, it was hard to define their bond, but it worked for them.
Despite the change in circumstance, Zoey had finally experienced the love of a father.
She linked arms with them. “He wouldn’t dare.”
“When are you bringing him home to meet us officially?”
Harlan wasn’t aware of Zoey’s true identity yet. I could tell she had feelings for him.
She lowered her head. “That won’t be necessary.”
My ordeal had left her fearful of love, afraid Harlan might suffer as Carter had. She had witnessed Carter’s agony firsthand. Behind her carefree facade, she was more perceptive than anyone.
Bill and Philippa shared a knowing glance, both patient.
“As long as you’re happy, we’ll support any decision you make.”
Zoey laughed. “Alright! Let’s go see the little ones. It’s been over two months; they must have grown so much.”
“Oh, you …” Philippa shook her head, a resigned smile on her lips.
Carter whispered something in my ear, prompting me to walk toward the door, where the Sander family awaited, looking uneasy.
Kate bit her lip, nervously explaining, “We just wanted to see you.”
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