These days, Jennifer ran her shop in the mornings and took Tina to strategy game lessons every afternoon.
Though she only needed to drop her off and pick her up later, Jennifer insisted on staying nearby.
With Dylan still three days away from returning from his business trip, she ached with missing him.
While waiting for Tina after class, she’d call Dylan. No matter how busy, he always found time for a video chat.
Gradually, they settled into a comfortable routine.
Since that incident, Alexander hadn’t come looking for her for quite some
time.
Counting down the days until Dylan’s return, Jennifer kept explaining his absence to curious customers.
Tina sometimes tiptoed to help behind the counter, mimicking Dylan’s
movements.
Their coordination often proved surprisingly seamless.
Apart from handling hot beverages like coffee, the little girl managed. most minor tasks effortlessly.
Today marked Dylan’s homecoming, so Jennifer prepared everything early and planned to close shop ahead of time.
Chapter 20
She’d even bought a bouquet specifically to welcome him.
Locking the cafe doors, she headed straight to pick him up for their pre- booked dinner.
The airport buzzed with travelers departing and arriving.
Reunions, farewells, and first meetings unfolded everywhere.
Holding Tina’s hand and clutching the flowers, Jennifer stood motionless at the arrivals gate, eyes fixed on the stream of people.
Soon enough, Dylan appeared in his denim jacket. Removing his sunglasses, he waved at them, a grin spreading uncontrollably
face.
“Flowers for you.
Welcome home.”
across his
Jennifer placed the bouquet in his arms, her heart pounding like a startled
deer.
Dylan crouched down to pinch Tina’s cheek.
“Missed your uncle, sweetheart?”
Tina babbled an enthusiastic yes.
Hoisting Tina onto his rolling suitcase with his right hand, Dylan clasped. Jennifer’s hand firmly with his left.
The warmth of his palm instantly soothed her. The days without him had felt like decades.
But now, he was finally beside her.
Chapter 20
“How was the flight?
You must be exhausted after all those hours.
I booked us a restaurant–let’s eat first.”
Dylan gazed at her adoringly. “Anything you say.”
They settled into a corner booth at the Western restaurant Jennifer chose.
“Tonight’s celebration dinner is my treat,” she declared, sliding the menu toward him.
Dylan smiled faintly and ordered two steaks.
Before Jennifer could speak, he took her hand. Rising smoothly, he dropped to one knee and pulled out a gleaming sterling silver ring from his pocket.
“Jennifer, will you marry me?”
Gasps rippled through the restaurant. Jennifer flushed crimson, stunned. by his gesture
Beside them, Tina chanted, “Say yes, Auntie! Marry him!”
“I will!”
Jennifer shyly extended her trembling hand as Dylan slipped the ring onto her finger.
The moment it settled in place,
he leaned down and kissed her knuckles.
Chapter 20
Then came a chorus of enthusiastic bravos and congratulations from the
customers.
Jennifer gazed at the shimmering diamond ring on her finger, her eyes lit
- up.
