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.

I’m

is so cute; he’s going to be a heartbreaker when he grows

“I don’t want to. By that time, you’ll be old

“You little rascal, that’s no way to talk

thoroughly until Chloe, after insisting on picking up the tab, was confronted by a group of stern–looking men

Chloe’s palms were sweaty with fear. “What do you want?” she demanded,

Ms.

had to be

young waitress, then bolted, determined not to drag Matilda into this mess.

Chloe fought fiercely, yelling, “Let go

welled

Chloe’s heart seemed to be in a vice as the car sped away. Matilda would worry; she

mansion, and Chloe was trembling, her face ashen with fear. “I won’t go in! Let me go!”

before Declan in