Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

Chapter 0553

At work, I found myself distracted. Douglas had spoken to me several times, but I hadn't heard a word. Even though I was confident in my confrontation with Claudia, I had to admit that her words had affected me.

Who was Nicholas really doing all this for? Claudia claimed it was for her-that he stood up for her in her time of need. Everything she said seemed to add up.

Was it really just a coincidence? I wasn't sure anymore.

I didn't know whether I doubted Nicholas or just lacked confidence in myself. I wasn't sure if Nicholas would pick me over Claudia. To me, it didn't seem possible.

Douglas could tell I wasn't focused on work. I'd never had much enthusiasm for corporate management. So, he tactfully excused himself.

Left alone, I idly flipped through case files, losing myself in them until nightfall.

When I got home, I heard the sound of a car pulling into the driveway. Wendy must have brought Tabitha back. I'd missed her terribly after just one day apart and rushed outside to meet them.

it wasn't Wendy holding

I had on my face disappeared instantly when I saw him. Yet, there

you doing here?" I looked

saw my cold stare. It was so different from the image of me in his memories. The contrast was too much for him

he had to endure it and put on a smile. "Ariana, about what happened earlier today..." 'Tabitha, Mommy's here. Do you

nuzzling her. Tabitha called out and snuggled her arms around my neck, but her other

"Ah! Ah! M-Mommy, D-Dad..."

of an eye, her head rested against my chest, her gaze vacant and distant. She stared off at nothing, lost

if she'd ever be like other children one day. She was still

go now," I urged

in. I'll help her get ready for bed

has me.

can't just ignore what she wants!" He reached out to touch Tabitha's face, bringing her back to the moment."