The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2681

The young one, growing more independent by the day, seemed to dodge every attempt to reel her back in.

“I was hoping to get her to come home for tomorrow’s dinner party, but she had every excuse in the book. Thankfully, she finally agreed,” said Francis.

“Oh, you,” Imogen said with a chuckle, her voice tinged with affection. “You should count your blessings that she said yes at all. Kids will be kids, after all. They’re meant to spread their wings.”

“And let’s not forget Regina’s internship at the newspaper,” she continued, her smile widening. “The girl’s probably up to her neck in work. And she’s so modest about her connections to the Tanner family. She’s a discreet one, that girl.”

Francis took her hand, his touch warm and reassuring. “They’ve all grown up, haven’t they? Flown the coop. But I’ve got you, my rock. You’ve been here through it all, my dear. Don’t think Regina’s ungrateful. She’s just… tied to her biological mother’s memory.”

Imogen patted his hand softly. “Francis, we’ve been through thick and thin. Why would

fret over such trivialities? I watched Regina grow up. I know her heart. And there’s nothing to apologize for. But I do wish she’d show up for the dinner. I see other folks’ kids settling down, and there she is, running around the paper, chasing after scoops like some kind of journalist. I may not be her birth mother, but my love for her lacks nothing. I don’t want others to think she’s falling behind.”

to have you. Don’t worry. I’ve already spoken to her. She’ll be at the Tanner

Imogen replied,

dead mother. I bend over backward for her, and she can’t even crack a smile. Moves out as soon as she’s of age, and poor old Francis is left pining. If

ma’am. The young Miss is getting too big for her britches, barely home three days out of the year, not like our Miss Madeline, steady as a rock and sweet-tempered. Everyone

Given how much the old man trusts you, you’ll have half the estate secured, and Miss Madeline won’t have

sighed heavily, a mix of frustration and resolve in her breath. “Men always want what

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Chapter 2681

knew better than to engage in

“By the

way,

Madeline now?” Imogen inquired,