Chapter 33

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Teresa shook her head gently He s got a heat rash Miriam wanted to make sure he s fully covered she explained
Guiding Michael with a light touch on his hand Teresa encouraged him Michael wave hello to Mr Lawrence
Michael taking his cue from Teresa looked up and greeted Edward with a shy Hi Mr Lawrence
Edward chuckled and waved a hand casually You can just call me Edward little man
Michael responded with a well mannered Hi Edward
Teresa s frown deepened her posture hinting that she was about to step in and end the interaction
Miriam’s call interrupted the moment. “Teresa” She rushed over, having come to look for them after waiting for what felt like too long.
Edward found himself in the spotlight as Miriam s eyes lit up upon seeing him Eddie What are you doing here Are you just visiting Jar is burg
With a casual shrug, Edward replied, “Nah, I’m just tagging along with my cousin. He’s here for work, and Im along for the fun.” Teresa cast a reproachful glance at Miriam, silently expressing her discontent with the possibility of encountering Jonathan in the city. Miriam responded with a helpless shrug, just as surprised by the news.
Given Jonathan s high profile position and frequent business trips it wasn t surprising to find him in a bustling city like Jar is burg Miriam found it quite a coincidence that Jonathan and Teresa both ended up in the city at the same time but was glad he didn t take the train which could have led to an awkward situation
Miriam changed the subject to their current predicament We re hotel hunting with no luck It s a zoo out there all the hotels are completely full
Edward offered a solution. “What about staying at Jonathan’s place? It’s a nice courtyard house. I can call and see if it’s an option.” Teresa dismissed the offer with a firm shake of her head. “Don’t bother. Miriam and I will find a hotel.
It was a rare opportunity for her to travel with Michael and the chance of bumping into his father in this particular city out of so many across the country was an extraordinary coincidence
Edward casting a glance at the bundled up child pointed out If you don t stay there her nephew could be sleeping on the sidewalk tonight
Nephew Miriam s brow lifted intrigued
Teresa smoothly clarified Right Miriam s nephew is only two We can t leave him without a place to stay
Miriam caught on to Teresa s quick thinking and silently approved impressed with Teresa s wit in passing Michael off
her nephew.
With a chuckle Miriam threw out an idea Then let s bunk at Jonathan s He must have dropped a bundle on a sweet courtyard house Edward couldn t help but boast You mean 500 million He sounded like he was the one who d written the check
Teresa let out a whistle That s no small sum Let s head there then
Teresa felt a little out of sorts but she decided to just go along with it
On the cab ride to downtown Teresa grew quiet leaving Edward to direct the driver Checking his phone he announced they d arrived at their destination
Stepping out Edward quickly spoke with the housekeeper of the courtyard house showing his driving license After a brief conversation the housekeeper ushered them in and guided them through the property
Miriam entered the expansive estate her eyes widening in amazement This is incredible she exclaimed her voice brimming with wonder It s enormous
The sprawling estate featured grand wings extending east and west each graced with hot springs and ponds alive with vibrant fish a testament to opulence Further in a sumptuous living room a modern kitchen and an expansive dining area beckoned for their
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enjoyment.
story.
Teresa her hand firmly around Michael s felt a swell of admiration Jonathan had truly made it to the top he was a success st Miriam still grinning turned to Edward and guessed This place must be enormous right It s got to be over 1 300 square yards Edward as they entered the second courtyard admitted Not sure exactly This is my first time here too Just then his phone buzzed in his pocket
He took it out to see Jonathan flashing on the screen
Teresa gently pulled Edward s arm signaling for him to keep her presence discreet
When Edward answered the phone with a casual “Hey, Jonathan, Teresa seized the moment. She quietly took Michael’s hand and guided them to a quieter spot, steering clear of Edward’s ongoing conversation.
Edward spoke into the phone, nodding. “The housekeeper must’ve given you a heads–up. Yeah, I’m at your new courtyard house.” His expression shifted, becoming somber as he listened to what Jonathan was saying on the other end.
J
With a sigh Edward acknowledged Yeah I understand his tone tinged with disappointment his lower lip protruding just a bit As soon as the call ended Teresa quickly inquired So what s the scoop What did he tell you
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