Chapter 34
Libbie and Caroline were deep in conversation when, after about a coffee's worth of time, Libbie's brother arrived.
Libbie quickly stood to make introductions. "Caroline, this is my brother—the one who also attended Heidi's exhibition today."
As Caroline turned around, she found herself facing Gavin, whose eyes widened in surprise.
Still clutching his backpack, he pointed at her, momentarily speechless. "You're the one from this morning..."
"So it's you," Caroline realized with sudden clarity.
Seeing Libbie's confused expression, Caroline explained, "We just met at the exhibition this morning. Remember I mentioned introducing someone who's also looking to start a business? It's him."
"What a small world!" Libbie clapped her hands. "My brother rarely has free time, but was invited to an exhibition to relax, and you happened to meet him there."
Gavin scratched his head with a sheepish grin. "Libbie, you have no idea—Ms. Hamilton and I really hit it off this morning. She's also in the medical field. She might even become my mentor."
Caroline's heart skipped a beat. The words "medical field" rippled through her mind like a stone thrown into still water.
"I don't understand your professional matters, so I won't intrude," Libbie said. She still needed to look after her daughter, so after a brief chat, she left.
As they settled back into conversation, Caroline's phone vibrated in her pocket. When the screen lit up, Arthur's name seemed to sting her eyes.
[Where are you?]
Such a short question—one that used to give her the illusion of being cared for. In the past, she would have instantly replied with lengthy paragraphs, detailing everything from which supermarket she visited to how many white paws the stray cat on the street had.
But now, looking at those words, her heart felt as if it were soaking in ice water, coldness spreading to her fingertips.
As she was about to type, the screen suddenly went dark. Caroline pressed the power button, only to see her bewildered face reflected in the black screen. The phone had died.
Just as well.
"Is something wrong?" Gavin noticed Caroline's expression change.
Caroline smiled lightly. "It's nothing. My phone just died." She tucked the phone into her bag, as if shedding a heavy burden.
"I added your WhatsApp account this morning," Gavin said, rubbing the back of his head. "I was hoping to learn more about you, but I noticed your last Status update was from half a year ago. It seems if I want to get to know Ms. Hamilton better, I'll have to meet with you in person more often."
If Gavin hadn't mentioned it, Caroline might have forgotten about posting Status updates altogether.
She used to post frequently, always about Arthur and the two children. But later, Arthur and the kids became increasingly reluctant to be photographed. Without them, Caroline's WhatsApp Status had gradually fallen silent.
"We're planning to focus on pharmaceuticals and medical equipment." Gavin took a sip of coffee, skillfully changing the subject. "We have channels and funding in Orchid City, but to expand our territory, talent is essential."
"Pharmaceuticals and medical equipment?" Caroline's hand paused. "My senior colleague is attending a medical symposium next week. I heard many industry leaders will be there."
Gavin sat up straight. "Really? Is it possible for me to get into that symposium?"
"I can ask if there are any spots left, but whether it works out depends on luck."
"Thank you so much, Ms. Hamilton!" Gavin was so excited he nearly knocked over his cup. "I knew we had a connection!"
Caroline and Gavin talked for over two hours before she headed home. Back in her car, Caroline let out a long breath. It had been a long time since she'd had such an enjoyable conversation.
She took out her phone, plugged in the charger, and when the screen lit up, she opened her photo gallery—something she hadn't done in ages. Her recent album contained only some screenshot documents and a single photo with Rena.
In the picture, Rena was smiling broadly, showing her two little canine teeth. As for herself... Caroline stared at the screen for a long time before recognizing the relaxed look in her own eyes.
It was an expression she had never worn in her seven years with the Windsor family.
Caroline scrolled down for a while but couldn't find any photos of Layla and Logan.
With soft piano music playing through the car speakers, Caroline found herself inexplicably opening WhatsApp Status. Her finger hovered over the publish button for three seconds before finally pressing it.
No caption, just that photo with Rena.
Perhaps her life could be about more than just the children and Arthur.