Chapter 35

Teresa s throat tightened and she blinked back the sting of tears Post divorce life wasn t as she d envisioned with Jonathan thriving while she juggled their son and a fading career She was determined not to let this be her final
Gently she whispered to the sleeping child Absolutely sweetheart We ll make it happen A better home and a stronger future I promise Ell always be here for you
The following morning Teresa and Michael were full of energy but Edward looked worn out his eyes shadowed by fatigue
Frowning with concern Teresa asked Miriam What happened between you and Edward last night
Miriam couldn t contain her frustration You won t believe this but he slept on the couch last night
Teresa however found the whole situation hilarious Why didn t you just go for it she asked laughter bubbling up
Miriam rolled her eyes her expression serious I m not the type to jump into things Eddie is special to me
Teresa caught the sincerity in Miriam s eyes acknowledging her true feelings for Edward
Out at the amusement park Edward fished a small loaf of bread from his bag and held it out to Michael who was quick to decline with a shake of his head
Edward glanced at Miriam and proposed Why not remove his mask It s really hot out today
Miriam hesitated casting a quick look at Teresa who felt Michael s sweaty palm With a resigned breath Teresa pulled the mask away The hat cast a shadow over Michaels forehead allowing Edward to see only the lower part of his face which highlighted Michael s distinct jaw line
Hey there young charmer show me that handsome face of yours Edward said with a chuckle
Remembering what Teresa had said Michael shook his head and sought comfort by hugging her leg
Spotting a chance to help, Miriam interjected, “Hey Mike, want to join me on the carousel? It’s a blast.”
Teresa felt a wave of relief as Miriam stepped in her eyes conveying her deep appreciation towards Miriam Edward who was all about the thrill of roller coasters wasn t a fan of the more laid back attractions like the carousel
Miriam, who had a real fear of heights, was quick to decline. “Thanks, but I’ll sit this one out. Heights aren’t
my thing Teresa stepped in taking charge of the situation Miriam how about you keep Michael company Edward and I are going to check out the excitement
Miriam clutching Michael s arm was ready to head to the lounge We ll hang out in the lounge I m dying for a drink
Teresa and Edward still buzzing from the thrill of the rides tackled a series of exhilarating attractions
As they stepped off the last one Edward gave Teresa a thumbs up his eyes twinkling with respect You re quite the adventure seeker Teresa You seemed so delicate around Jonathan he complimented clearly impressed
On one of the thrill rides Edward was the one who screamed throughout while Teresa stayed completely un fazed
Teresa sighed softly and gave Edward a slight roll of her eyes Can we leave Jonathan behind I m done with him now
Edward seemed ill at ease nervously rubbing his neck Must we steer clear of any mention of him He wouldn t be pleased if he knew With a nonchalant shrug Teresa brushed off his concern He s not here to care she replied taking out her phone to video call Miriam As soon as Miriam answered the call Teresa swiftly inquired Hey where are y
you guys at?”
We re enjoying a buffet Mike s famished Miriam told her
Teresa’s eyes twinkled with amusement as she observed Michael on the video, cheerfully eating his fill. As she and Edward set off for
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their dinner Edward thoughtfully carried Teresa s bag alongside his
Casually, Teresa turned to Edward. “So, what’s up with you and Miriam? She’s a cool person.
Edward not in the mood for this chat gave a dismissive gesture Teresa I m really just focused on school right now he replied steering the conversation away from his personal life
Teresa tried to reassure him You ll have plenty of time for relationships in college
But Edward was firm Can we not talk about this he requested
Teresa picked up on his signals and didn t push it further
Navigating the city center in his sleek black May bach Jonathan massaged his temples to relieve the stress of a hectic day and jet lag His mind was also preoccupied with Teresa who only ever responded to his calls never making the first move
With a sigh Jonathan turned on the tablet next to him and started browsing Teresa s online store
The driver s alarmed voice broke through Jonathan s concentration Mr Lynn isn t that Mrs Lynn across the street he asked pointing
Glancing up from his tablet Jonathan frowned as he noticed Teresa and Edward deep in lively conversation following the driver s Indication
His mood turned sour Pull over he commanded sharply
AD