The sudden voice made both Vespera and Raymond jump. They turned around at the same time. Snowball sprang off Vespera's lap and scurried over to Dominic for some affection.
Vespera quickly composed herself and said, "I just heard some things at the office and got curious."
Raymond backed her up immediately, saying, "I told Vespera some stories about the Reid family last time and mentioned Mr. Harry. It's my fault."
Dominic bent down and picked up Snowball before walking over. He placed Snowball back on Vespera's lap and said, "If you're curious about my family, you can just ask me directly. I can give you more details."
Vespera smiled awkwardly and responded, "Alright."
She patted Snowball and tried to act casual, though her heart was pounding.
"It's getting late," said Raymond before standing up. "Vespera, help me place Snowball in bed later. I'm going to rest now."
"Alright. Good night, Mr. Chandler," replied Vespera, lifting one of Snowball's legs and waving it as a goodbye.
Dominic pulled over a chair and sat next to Vespera. They were very close. At this time, she was still a bit uneasy. She felt like she was going to be interrogated.
"It's hot out here," said Vespera, subtly shifting to the side.
She hoped Dominic would take the hint and move a little farther away. The balcony had plenty of space. Why did they have to sit practically shoulder to shoulder?
Dominic reached out and patted Snowball. He asked, "Is it? It must be because Snowball is too chubby. Here, let me cool you down."
He picked up a fan from the table and started fanning Vespera.
Not knowing what to say, Vespera glanced at him, then lowered her head and focused on Snowball. At the same time, her mind raced. She needed to be ready in case he asked more about what she had said earlier.
Just then, Dominic's low voice sounded as the gentle wind brushed against her ear. He said, "My siblings are home these days. If you're interested, I could arrange for you to meet them."
Vespera knew Dominic wasn't letting the topic drop so easily. She closed her eyes for a brief second before looking at him and saying, "Please spare me. I've learned my lesson. I won't gossip anymore, I swear."
Dominic replied, "Vera, I mean it. I want you to meet my family."
"I haven't thought that far ahead yet. Let's just table that for now," responded Vespera. With Snowball in her arms, she moved to stand up.
This conversation had to end. Vespera hadn't planned to visit the Reid family in the first place, and now, she was certain she couldn't. Not with things the way they were. If she went now, it would look like she was trying to climb her way into the Reid family.
Dominic reached out and pressed Vespera back into the chair. He opened his mouth to reassure her, but before he could, his phone rang. He pulled out his phone.
Vespera sneaked a glance at the screen and got caught. Initially, Dominic wanted to take the call somewhere else, but upon noticing her gaze, he changed his mind and took the call right there without walking away.
Dominic answered, "What is it?"
"Dominic, I dragged Mom and Harry to the mall with me today. Mom saw a woman's back and swore it was the person who saved her life. She forced us to go on a manhunt through the entire mall," said Natasha through the line.
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