Just then, there were a few light knocks on the study door, followed by Yolanda's eager voice. "Dad, I'm coming in."
With that, she pushed the door open and walked in.
She was wearing the brightly colored tiered dress, and both her makeup and jewelry were perfectly chosen.
"Dad, what have you two been talking about for so long?" Yolanda sat down next to Bennett, naturally and affectionately linking her arm with his.
Bennett's expression remained calm and gentle. He didn't pull away immediately but subtly freed himself as he reached for his teacup.
Seeing his daughter, Mr. Walker stopped discussing business. He waved his hand with a smile while sipping his tea.
"It's all my fault for monopolizing your boyfriend. Now, you two lovebirds go have a private chat. I have a meeting this afternoon and need to leave soon."
"Then I won't keep you," Bennett said, putting down his teacup. He stood up politely and walked out of the study.
Yolanda followed Bennett, and just as they stepped out of the study, they ran into Mrs. Walker.
Mrs. Walker was beaming, holding a fruit platter.
"This is a special delivery of fruit that just arrived this morning. I had the maid slice some for you two."
Yolanda said, "Mom, Ben and I are going for a walk in the garden downstairs. We'll eat later."
Mrs. Walker nodded with a knowing smile. "I know, I know. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right? You and Bennett haven't seen each other in a while, so you must want some time alone."
"Mom, you're always teasing us," Yolanda said, her cheeks flushing as she pulled Bennett quickly towards the door.
If she threw a tantrum, Bennett might think she was being unreasonable. But if she didn't, what if he continued his shameless entanglement with other women?
After wrestling with her thoughts, Yolanda finally spoke tentatively, "Bennett, about what happened in the hospital room the other day... I was a bit emotional and didn't even listen to your explanation. I know you're not the type to be unfaithful, so I'm sure it was all just a misunderstanding."
Bennett stopped walking and looked at her, his gaze calm and deep.
"It wasn't a misunderstanding. Yolanda, let's break up."
"What?" Yolanda's mind had been busy composing the perfect speech—one that would convey her pride and hurt without making her seem unreasonable.
His words were so unexpected that it took her a moment to realize that Bennett hadn't come to make up; he had come to break up with her.

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