Chapter 64: CHAPTER SIXTY-FOUR

CYREL invited Ross for a walk in the garden. She wanted to breathe. She needed it. She could have given him a tour of their house, but there was nothing exciting about it.

“You know, whenever the day ends, I would cry because that meant Lorna had to go home to her children,” Cyrel said. “I loved to have her around. I’m just happy to see her again after so many years.”

“So, does that mean you have made up your mind?” Ross asked.

Cyrel stared at his face.

“I wanted to help Lorna. I want her and her children to have a better life. So,” she sighed, “even if I don’t trust my dad, I’m giving them a chance. What do you think?”

“This is charity, remember? You should not feel bad about extending help. You’re doing good. I’m proud of you.” Ross cupped her cheeks.

Cyrel smiled.

“You’re a better parent than the people inside that house.”

He chuckled.

“You think so?”

“Should we go back inside? Let’s have coffee before we head home.”

“I know you’re excited to tell Lorna the good news,” Ross teased.

Cyrel giggled as she pulled Ross’s arm.

“OH, they’re back already,” Rosell said. She was serving the coffee in the living room. “Join us, children. Our coffee is good. Lorna made it.”

Cyrel and Ross glanced at each other before they joined them.

“You made this, Lorna?” Cyrel asked as she sat beside her former nanny.

“Yes. Remember how I used to make your milk when you were little? I can’t believe I would have the chance to make your coffee, too. You have grown into a beautiful woman. And soon, you’re going to become a mother. I’m sure you’re going to be great.”

She smiled.

“Like you,” she said.

Lorna laughed, but it did not reach her eyes.

“T-that’s… that’s not true. I’m not a good mother.”

Cyrel was concerned all of a sudden.

“Lorna, don’t say that. I know you have always done your best.”

But Christian cleared his throat.

“Come on, darling. We are here to talk about the promising future of Women of Tomorrow Foundation. This is not the perfect time for some dramas. So, have you made up your mind?”

Cyrel glanced at Ross, who was sitting on the single sofa beside her.

“I think Women of Foundation deserves a spot for the fundraising event,” she said. Christian and Gertrude smiled as they exchanged glances. “I still have to bring this up to Ross’s father, but there’s a big chance he’s going to give his go signal to it.”

When she turned to Lorna, she was smiling and looked relieved.

“That’s so kind of you, Cyrel. You haven’t changed after all these years.”

“Well, you were the first person who taught me compassion. I’m just so happy to be able to give back. I mean, it’s not my money, but to be an instrument is something I’m proud to do. I want to meet your children sooner. Let’s have a reunion.”

“O-oh. They would love that.”

“You never fail to make us proud, Cyrel, darling.” Christian stood up and walked to her. “Thank you. You just don’t know how happy your mom and I are.” He opened his arms. “Come here.”

Cyrel was compelled to leave Lorna’s side and stand up.

Christian hugged her tight.

“Why don’t you and Ross stay the night? We prepared your old room for you.”

“I wish we could, Dad, but I still have a lot of stuff to do. There’s a lot of preparations for Dad’s party,” Cyrel said as she pulled away. “I think Ross and I better get going now.”

“That fast? But you just came here,” Christian said, sounding sorry.

It made Cyrel’s skin prickle. Her father was so out of character she wished he would stop it.

But what if he really was changing?

“Dear, at least finish your coffee first. It will keep Ross awake while driving,” Rosell suggested.

“No problem, Mrs. Byrne. Thank you,” Ross said politely.

Christian turned to Ross. “Ross, come on. You should get used to calling us ‘Mom’ and ‘Dad.’ We’re already a family now.”

“Yeah. I’ll try.” Ross chuckled awkwardly.

“DRIVE safely, okay?” Rosell said when they walked Cyrel and Ross to the car.

“Thank you for the reminder, Mom,” said Ross. “You can come to our house next time so we can have a family dinner.”

“That sounds lovely,” Christian said. “I can’t remember the last time I went to Rustom’s place. Don’t worry. I’ll clear my schedule to make it possible. Thank you for the invitation, Ross. That would be our first formal dinner as a family. Rosell and I are already looking forward to it.”

“No problem. I’m sure Dad would love that.” Ross tapped Cyrel’s back. “My wife already looked sleepy. We better get going for real. Bye, guys.”

Cyrel sighed in relief.