Chapter 210
Chapter 210:
Felix’s eyes suddenly sharpened with suspicion as he leaned closer to Brinley. “Why do I get the feeling you’re hiding something from me? I saw clips of you online, and that seamless S-curve maneuver—it’s almost identical to the retired racing legend, Rosara p>
Brinley’s stomach sank, but she kept her expression calm and lightly tapped his head. “Rosara is a legend. How could I possibly compare to her? It’s just a coincidence that our moves look similar.” She smoothly changed the subject. “Enough about that. How long are you staying this time p>
The diversion worked. Felix replied without hesitation, “I’m here for good. I’ve switched to domestic races with my team p>
He glanced at Brinley, his voice softening. “I can’t leave you here alone. If Colin ever tries to bother you again, I’ll be there to shut him down p>
As dusk settled, the dining room filled with warm light. The long table was laden with steaming dishes, their rich aromas spreading through the room.
Brandon sat at the head of the table, watching his children with clear contentment.
Ravenous, Felix dug in and dropped a generous piece of braised pork onto Brinley’s plate. “Try this, Brinley. The food’s incredible p>
𝘉𝖾 р𝗮𝗿𝗍 𝘰𝗳 𝗈𝘂𝘳 соm𝗺𝘂𝗇𝗶𝘵𝘆 o𝗇 ѕ.𝘤𝗈m
She shook her head with an affectionate smile. “Slow down, Felix. No one’s competing with you for it p>
Brandon took a sip of wine, his gaze resting on his daughter. “Brinley, how long will you stay this time? Will your company manage without you p>
“The main project is almost finished, so I can stay a while,” Brinley replied. “I’ll have time to spend with you and Felix p>
“That’s good,” Brandon said with a nod, a trace of wistfulness in his tone. “Brennen wanted to come, but a last-minute assignment held him up. You’re always on his mind p>
Brinley’s grip on her fork tightened, her voice softening. “I understand p>
A flicker of sadness passed through her, though she knew Brennen had no choice—duty came first.
Sensing the shift in her mood, Felix quickly jumped in. “Dad, Brinley, there’s a cross-country race in Bleron next month, and I’m competing. You both have to come and cheer me on p>
“Oh? What level is it?” Brinley’s curiosity sparked, lifting her spirits.
“It’s a major amateur event nationwide, with some retired professional racers joining in,” Felix said, his eyes shining. “I came back this time to secure a strong ranking and maybe snag a spot on the national team’s reserve list p>
“Big dreams,” Brandon said calmly. “Let me know if you need anything p>
“Thanks, Dad!” Felix turned to Brinley, scooting closer. “I’ve watched your international race clip at least twenty times. That S-curve move was incredible. You have to teach me p>
Brinley laughed softly. “Me, teach you? I’m just an amateur. You’re the professional here p>
“Don’t sell yourself short,” Felix said, lowering his voice with a conspiratorial grin. “The internet’s buzzing that Austin’s been pulling strings for you, even reaching out to high-ranking officials in the international racing league. You’ve got him completely wrapped around your finger p>
“Felix,” Brinley protested, her cheeks warming as she shot him a mock glare. “Stop teasing me p>
Brandon cleared his throat, his gaze settling thoughtfully on Brinley. “Austin truly cherishes you. The last time he visited, he didn’t say much, but his eyes spoke volumes. I can rest easy knowing you have someone who values you so deeply p>
At the mention of Austin’s name, a gentle warmth spread through Brinley’s chest.
Just then, Felix’s phone buzzed. He answered, his expression tightening after a few words, his tone turning urgent. “Alright. I’m heading there now p>
After hanging up, he stood and apologized. “The team’s run into an engine issue with the race car. I need to go deal with it p>
“That serious?” Brandon asked, concern creasing his brow.
“The test run is tomorrow. It has to be fixed tonight,” Felix replied, grabbing his jacket. “Dad, Brinley, I’ll be back soon p>
At the doorway, he turned and called out, “Brinley, stay up for me. We’re talking racing when I get back p>
As Felix rushed out, Brandon let out a quiet sigh. “He’s just like Brennen. Once work starts, nothing else exists p>
“There’s something admirable about that kind of youthful drive,” Brinley replied with a gentle smile.
After dinner, Brandon retired to his study.
Brinley curled up on the living room sofa, a lively drama playing on the television, though it failed to hold her attention.
She took out her phone, unlocked it, and opened her chat with Austin.
Their last exchange was from noon.
Her fingers hovered over the keyboard as she typed, “Have you managed to sort things out p>
After staring at the message for a moment, she reconsidered and deleted it.
There was no need to disturb him. The Moore family was likely still deep in discussion.