Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

In the following days, my schedule was always tightly arranged by Nicholas.

He subtly hinted and asked whether I'd consider remarrying him, saying it might make the adoption process for Cory easier. However, I could handle the matter myself, even if it was more troublesome. Rather than discussing relationship issues with him now, I preferred dealing with a bit more hassle.

So, I started reaching out to Douglas. When Nicholas found out, he was upset for several days. Every time our eyes met in the Coral Villa, he'd look at me with a mournful gaze. However, I simply pretended not to notice and deliberately avoided him. Nicholas seemed to understand my stance. For him, as long as he had something he wanted to achieve, our relationship wouldn't become an obstacle.

With his help, everything progressed smoothly. In the end, Cory was adopted under my name and officially became my son.

Tabitha seemed to understand too-she really did have an elder brother now. For a while, the three of us adjusted to our new roles as a family, while only Nicholas remained gloomy.

We spent some hazy, carefree days, but parting came unexpectedly.

During this time, I noticed that whenever I brought up visiting Frances and Claudia, Nicholas always had various reasons to redirect me to other tasks.

At first, I complied with his arrangements-some matters indeed seemed urgent. But, gradually, I sensed something was off.

For instance, even though it was still some time before the New Year, he suggested I take Cory shopping for New Year's. He even asked if I'd like to get a new puppy.

the door, he was standing with his back to me

late-autumn scene. It was then I realized, with a jolt, that the one-month period

had forgotten

I got straight

the

earlier-you do not

anymore, right?"

Padmit that I felt a

en

even more so when they were linked to me, Nicholas,

pierced through memories, bringing a flood of old and new wounds

tinged with melancholy. "I never said I don't

the trace of loneliness in it.

shot through

recalled what

in the