Chapter 28
Looking at the pair before me, I found the situation increasingly amusing. I leaned in closer to Jared’s ear and said softly, “What a coincidence, huh? Just when I got bored, someone stepped in to pick up the pieces and even volunteered to help raise
my son. If that person isn’t a saint, I don’t know who is.”
My tone dripped with mockery as I gave his shoulder a condescending pat.
Turning to Jonas, I smiled and said cheerfully, “Son, it’s time for us to go.” I kept my tone light and pleasant, determined not to let Jonas feel the tension in the air.
“Don’t forget, you have school tomorrow,” I reminded him.
Jonas nodded obediently, stood up, and followed me out of the unpleasant scene.
After we left, Jared stood frozen, his expression shifting between anger and composure. Eventually, he managed to suppress his frustration and forced a smile at Yvonne. “Since Mr. Joplin isn’t too keen on having me here, let’s leave as well.”
“Jared, I don’t know what’s gotten into Cole today. He wasn’t like this before…” Yvonne said, frowning in confusion.
Jared didn’t respond. Instead, he hailed a cab, took Yvonne by the arm, and left.
I had no idea what transpired after I left, nor did I care. Having finally voiced the words I had buried for so long, I felt a renewed energy coursing through me. Even the simplest tasks seemed more enjoyable.
Jonas must have sensed my unusually good mood as he playfully suggested we go out to eat. Naturally, I agreed…
I asked softly as we sat down at the restaurant, “Jonas, what did you think of today’s event?”
Jonas put down his spoon and said earnestly, “I felt really happy, Daddy. Seeing those kids. smile when they got their new school supplies felt so meaningful.”
“Did it? That’s wonderful,” I replied with a smile. Just then, my phone buzzed. It was Yvonne again.
“What do you need?” I answered curtly.
There was a brief pause before she said in a deliberately casual tone, “When are you planning to bring over Xavier’s toys? He’s been asking for them.”
“This weekend,” I replied offhandedly. “I’ll send you a list. Let me know if anything’s missing.
“Alright…”
“That’s all, then. Call less often if it’s not important. Goodbye,” I said before ending the call.
Back at the office, I had barely sat down when my secretary walked in. “Mr. Joplin, Mr. Lawson is here to see you.”
1 frowned. “Again? Let him in.”
Jared then walked in with his usual smile. “Mr. Joplin, I hope I’m not intruding.”
Feeling somewhat surprised, I gestured for him to sit. “What brings you here, Mr. Lawson?”
He smiled as he explained, “I have a proposal. recently took on a charity endorsement and thought it would be great to invite you to collaborate. It could really help your project.”
I let out a cold laugh. “Mr. Lawson, my project doesn’t rely on anyone’s celebrity status. If you genuinely want to help those children, you can donate directly.”
Jared’s smile faltered momentarily but quickly returned to his face. “I understand your reservations, Mr. Joplin. But for the sake of the children, shouldn’t we set aside our differences and work together?”
I looked him straight in the eye. “Mr. Lawson, let me be blunt. There’s nothing for us to collaborate on. You can continue being a star, and I’ll continue my charity work. Let’s stay out of each other’s way.”
Jared sighed. “I know you have issues with me, Mr. Joplin. But I hope you’ll consider the children’s feelings–especially Xavier. He really wants-
I cut him off, “Mr. Lawson, please don’t use the children as an excuse. Xavier is with Yvonne now, and I trust she’ll take good care of him. As for Jonas, you don’t need to concern yourself.”
Jared was silent for a moment before standing. “Alright, if that’s how you feel, I won’t push further.
I do hope, though, that we can be friends one day.”
I chuckled lightly and shook my head. “Well, I’ll be waiting to see that day.”
After seeing Jared out, I let out a long breath, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over me.
Just then, my phone rang–it was Peyton.
“Cole, great news!” he exclaimed.
