Mrs. James figured out the unspoken request from Charlie's eyes, but she didn't give an immediate answer. Instead, she skillfully changed the subject. "Are you going to let me take Kya home or not? Your father just told me he's memorized a bunch of fairy tales for her."
Charlie thought for a moment and then nodded, "Okay, take Kya home. I'll go talk to Emily."
Mrs. James' face lit up with delight as she hugged Kya. "You're going home with Granny. Say goodbye to your daddy!"
"Where's Mommy?" Kya asked.
Charlie tilted his head and kissed her little cheek. "I'm going to find Mommy. You go home with Granny, and we'll have a video chat tonight."
"Okay!" Kya nodded obediently. "Bye-bye, Daddy!"
"Bye-bye!"
Mrs. James was overjoyed, hugging Kya as they made their way outside. "Grandpa got a koala from Australia and two Polish rabbits; they're so pretty. Do you want to see them?"
"Granny!" Kya frowned slightly. "Don't you like my mommy?"
Mrs. James' smile faltered for a moment. "Of course not!"
"My mommy is really nice. The other grandparents are mean to her. Will you help me protect her, Granny?" Kya's voice was tender but earnest.
Mrs. Collins, looking into the child's innocent eyes, felt a pang in her heart but smiled warmly in return. "Of course, Granny likes your mommy too."
"You're the best, Granny!" Kya hugged her tight.
Mrs. James held Kya closer, feeling a mix of emotions, and turned to see Charlie still standing where they had parted. She called out, "Charlie!"
"Yes, Mom?" Charlie walked over slowly.
Mrs. James eyed him. "Bring Emily over this weekend, will you?"
Now, with her in his arms, he finally felt at peace.
He was tempted to kiss her, but seeing her so tired, he didn't want to disturb her slumber. He'd let her rest for a while; he could wait.
The black Bentley swiftly navigated through the bustling night scene of J City, the towering LED screens passed by replaying the highlights of Magdalen's wedding.
As the images flickered by, Jonathan glimpsed on the screen the moment Magdalen tossed the bouquet to Estelle. After catching it, Estelle's momentary joy turned to a search through the crowd.
He had been watching her from the upper floor, capturing every expression and movement.
He knew she was looking for him.
This understanding of each other's feelings was profoundly satisfying.
He even regretted not being right beside her at that moment. He should have been there by her side after she caught the bouquet, and to hold her tight!
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