A Journey from Bitterness to Truth

Chapter 207

Matilda quickened her pace, fighting back tears with every step she took away from Yvan. She didn’t want him, that heartless man, to see her in a moment of weakness, to know the depth of her pain.

Orson, ever the gentleman, poured her a steaming cup of tea as they waited for their meal. The food arrived promptly, and Logan tried to distract her with his innocent charm. “Mom, let’s not think about it. How about we order some oysters?”

Matilda forced a smile and caressed Logan’s cheek. “Sure, honey. Do you want the ones with cheese topping? I’ll get one for you.”

Chloe breezed into the room, followed by Godfrey. Godfrey apologized, “Sorry for the drama, everyone. Let me make it up to you with a platter of salami.”

“Wow, is this our treat?” Chloe exclaimed, her spirits lifting. “Bring it on, don’t be shy!”

Godfrey, clad in his smart waiter’s uniform, shared a laugh with them before heading back to his duties. Watching him go, Matilda nudged Chloe, “You know, he’s way more reliable than Horatio or Declan. You could give it a try!”

Chloe rolled her eyes playfully. “I think Orson’s more dependable than Yvan or Adrian. Why don’t you give him a shot?”

Orson’s gaze deepened but he remained silent.

“Nah, I’m better off focusing on raising

“You know what, you’re right. Logan is so cute; he’s going to be a heartbreaker when he grows up. I might just wait

to. By that time, you’ll be old enough to be

no way to

away. They enjoyed their meal thoroughly until Chloe, after insisting on picking up the tab, was confronted by a group of stern–looking men in

fear. “What do you want?” she demanded,

wishes to see you, Ms. Chloe,” the lead

had to

determined not to drag Matilda into this mess. But she

didn’t get far before she was caught. Chloe fought

welled up as she continued

as the car sped away. Matilda would

pleas went unheard in the car. They arrived at Declan’s mansion, and Chloe was trembling,

was brought before Declan in