Chapter 10
Right then, Eric had a lightbulb moment. That weird vibe he got from these kids earlier? Ryan was like a mini version of his younger self. Even at Ryan’s age, one could see hints of how Eric looked now.
With his deep voice. Eric asked, “What’s going on here!”
As Ryan emerged dirty–faced from the bushes, Eric couldn’t help but imagine scolding his own child for the mischief. Yet, seeing Ryan’s innocence now, Eric felt a mix of warmth and discomfort, with Tristan’s words echoing in his mind–five years ago, Ashley left the Anderson family pregnant with twins. If his own kids were still around, maybe they’d look like these little ones— innocent and adorable.
Eric reached out, but Ryan backed away, eyeing him suspiciously, “Hey, what’s that about?”
Eric snapped out of it real quick, freezing up his hand before finally pulling it back.
with the lunchbox. She spoke softly, “You can’t be so rude. You bumped into him first”
“Ryan,” Chloe called, rushing over w
She then apologized for Ryan, saying, “Sorry about that, sir.”
Eric responded nonchalantly, “No sweat. He hesitated a second before asking, “What brings you around?”
Chloe beamed as she showed off the lunchbox “We’re bringing Mommy lunch,” she said softly.
Seeing the overturned lunchbox in the bag, Eric was at a loss for words. He extended his hand and said, “I’m afraid it’s not edible anymore. Look, the food’s spilled out.
Chloe realized her mistake. The lunchbox had flipped over while she was running around chasing after Ryan. Her face scrunched up with distress as she turned to Ryan and said. “Ryan, I’m really sorry. I spilled Mommy’s lunch.
Chloe’s cuteness melted Eric’s heart. “I know a great restaurant nearby. How about I take you there to get a new one?” he asked,
Tristan was taken aback by this unexpected side of his boss. ‘Even if Mr. Anderson cares about the kids and wants to handle lunch for Dr. Garcia, he doesn’t need to personally involve himself in such minor issues, Secing Eric about to leave with the two kids, Tristan said at the right moment, “Mr. Anderson, Ms. Garcia is still waiting for you.”
Eric stopped and said calmly, “You can take her back.” He looked at the kids, then at Tristan, his tone serious. “Do what I told you, now.”
Eric took the kids to a nearby restaurant where Chloe and Ryan were overwhelmed by the options. Amidst the lunchtime crowd of happy families. Eric felt a mix of emotions, his gaze intensifying toward Chloe and Ryan. If they were truly his children, it would be wonderful, but it also meant he’d been absent from their lives for years, missing out on raising them and nearly causing their deaths.
