Chapter 304
Chapter 304:
He stepped into a nearby mall, his gaze drawn to racks of little girls’ dresses, colorful stationery, backpacks, and art supplies.
He imagined Ari in one of those dresses—she would look lovely.
He remembered her passion for drawing, the quiet intensity she showed, and the genuine promise in her work.
With the right support, she could become a true artist.
Guided by impulse, Brandon began selecting items.
His presence didn’t go unnoticed, but when the staff approached, he simply gestured for them not to make a scene.
He picked out several dresses, art materials, and school supplies, then paid and had everything neatly packed.
When he returned to the car, the driver looked surprised but said nothing.
The car pulled away smoothly.
As he held the bags beside him, Brandon felt an unexpected sense of peace.
He wanted to see Ari. To bring her gifts. To make her feel cherished.
Soon, they arrived. Brandon spoke with the director and arranged a short visit in a designated meeting area.
After a brief wait, Ari appeared, slowly making her way toward him with a plush puppy toy clutched in her arms.
She didn’t say anything. She simply sat on a nearby chair.
They sat in silence for a while.
Then Brandon spoke first. “I brought you something.”
He placed the bags on the table and showed her one of the dresses.
Ari glanced at the dress briefly. “Thank you, sir,” she said politely, “but I don’t need it.”
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Unfazed, Brandon gently moved the dress aside and brought out the backpack and art supplies.
“I saw your drawing at the kindergarten last time,” he said. “You’re really talented.” He laid the items out carefully.
Ari looked at him but didn’t reach for anything.
“You can give them to other kids here,” she said.
Brandon studied her small face, unsure how to respond.
Ari spoke again, softly but clearly. “My mom will buy the things I need. And even if she’s busy, Alexia and Charles will help. I’m only staying here because the paperwork isn’t finalized yet.” ɪꜰ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs, ᴘʟᴇᴀsᴇ ᴠɪsɪᴛ.net
She lifted her plush toy slightly. “Look, Alexia gave this to me. I really like it.”
“If you like it, I can buy you more,” Brandon offered.
Ari didn’t answer. She just held the toy tightly and looked at him.
Then she said, “Sir, don’t you understand? I only accept things from my mom and her friends. I don’t take things from anyone else.”
In that modest children’s home, she looked small and delicate, but there was strength in her voice—a quiet resolve that reminded him of Millie. “Please go back,” she said gently. “Don’t come looking for me anymore.”
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