Chapter 15: Uncle Cass, My Aunt Was Stolen
Gemma’s decision to join the forum sparked plenty of skepticism.
To prove herself, she participated in several high–stakes surgeries over the past few days.
Many doctors gathered by the large screen outside to observe.
After witnessing her superb skills, the voices of dissent gradually quieted.
When she walked out of the operating room, Brian greeted her with a smile. “You did great today. The deputy director happened to pass by and was blown away by your cyst removal technique.”
Gemma had been tense during the surgery, but now that it was over, her face relaxed.
“You’re not lying to me, are you?”
Brian adjusted his glasses. “You can’t shadow the shining diamond, my friend. Don’t forget me when you make it big” Gemma couldn’t hide her smile from the praise.
She washed her hands, splashing water a bit too enthusiastically.
Brian watched her grinning and his gaze grew thoughtful.
“I’ve been thinking…”
He paused for a moment before continuing.
Gemma blinked. “Thinking about what?”
“That you’ve changed.”
But then, he shook his head.
“No, not changed. Actually, you’ve always been like this since college.”
This time, Gemma was completely stunned.
She and Cali had both worked hard to leave their small, remote valley town. It was natural they weren’t the timid type. After all,
- Cali was n
was now a department head, known in her field as a “devil in designer heels.”
And Gemma…
When she first married Marcus, her fiery personality helped the blind man fend off plenty of opportunists and critics, Back then, Marcus was touched and called her the best wife in the world.
BUL
When Marcus regained his sight, she stood up for him during an event, exposing a manipulative girl who’d framed
someone else.
Unfortunately, that girl’s family happened to be an ally the Wilsons were courting
Marcus lashed out, demanding she curb her temper..
From then on, he stopped taking her to any events.
By the time Mabel showed up, everyone assumed ‘she‘ was his wife.
“Really?”
Gemma bit her lip, feeling like a fool for who she used to be.
Brian added meaningfully. “Sharp stones are often found on mountaintops, while, smooth pebbles end up underfoot.” People should never dull their edge.
Otherwise, they’d just become stepping stones for others.
“You’re doing great now,” he concluded.
To prevent her from overthinking, Brian changed the subject. “Back in college, everyone loved you. The professors always said you were like a little sun.”
Chapter 15: Uncle Cass, My Aunt Was Stolen
Ile meant to make her laugh.
Instead, her eyes shimmered with unshed tears.
She had nearly gone from a radiant crescent moon to a forgotten stone at the bottom of the sea.
“Brian, thank you for the reminder.”
From now on, she’d only be herself!
Brian handed her a pack of tissues.
She quickly grabbed it to wipe her tears.
“Today’s successful surgery calls for a celebration.”
“Noah mentioned wanting to go to an amusement park last time. Why not take him after work!”
Gemma hesitated. “I’m not sure.”
“Noah would love it. I’ll buy the tickets.
Before Gemma could refuse, he already had his phone out.
“Didn’t Noah say he wanted to try the suspension bridge? Maybe bring a change of clothes–just in case he falls in the
Water
Chatting away, they returned to the office.
In the past, Gemma only had eyes for her husband and son. She’d clock in and out punctually and barely interacted with her colleagues.
Even though Brian was a college friend who often helped her at work, their connection was minimal.
Now, she realized Brian was incredibly thoughtful. After just one day with Noah, he’d memorized the boy’s preferences.
She couldn’t help but mutter, “So men CAN have good memories.
When Ali was born, his health was frail.
During her maternity leave, she barely had a full night’s sleep.
Before returning to work, she meticulously wrote out Ali’s care instructions. Yet not long into her shift, she got a call–Ali had an allergic reaction.
She had no choice but to keep taking time off to care for the child.
Later, for many years, Marcus wouldn’t remember Ali’s peanut allergy, her birthday, or Ali’s preferences.
If she ever complained, Marcus would just tell her to quit her job and stay home.
It was as if, once she became a housewife, he could wash his hands of everything related to Ali and conveniently forget every important date.
She used to think all men were like this–straightforward and clueless about such details.
But now she
now she understood–it wasn’t about forgetting. He simply didn’t care to remember.
Brian had been considering whether to check out the haunted house when her voice interrupted his thoughts. He glanced at her, slightly puzzled. “What? I didn’t catch that.”
“Nothing.”
Her train of thought broke, she smiled faintly. “I’ll go check on Noah.”
Noah was sitting quietly in the doctors‘ lounge, chatting with Cassius on a tablet.
“Uncle Cass, aren’t you coming back yet?”
“Auntie’s going to get snatched away.”
“I’m working really hard to protect your wife for you!”
Cassius was in a lavishly decorated room, lounging with a golden retriever at his side. The dog raised a paw toward the
ScreenL
Chapter 13: Uncle Cass, My Aunt Was Stolen
Noah pouted, visibly annoyed..
“See? Even Tommy knows how to thank me. Uncle Cass, you’re so rude!” Cassius didn’t seem interested in Noah’s chatter. His tone was indifferent.
“Had enough fun? If you’re done, I’ll have Archibald pick you up.”
Noah’s eyes widened in disbelief. “I’m talking about your wife! If I leave, you’ll lose her!” Cassius leaned back on the couch, his posture exuding laziness and detachment.
“Archibald will come to get you later. Pack your bags”
And with that, he hung up the call.
Noah sat there, utterly dumbfounded.
Sniffle.
Uncle Cass doesn’t want his wife.
But I want Auntiel What do I do now?
Just then, Gemma walked in, smiling at the little bun sitting there as if the world had ended.
“Hm?” Her smile faded as she noticed his gloomy expression, and she hurried over. “What’s wrong? Feeling upset?”
Noah wasn’t just upset–he was on the verge of tears.
He immediately latched onto Gemma’s arm. “Gemma, I just want to stay with you!”
Gemma was utterly confused. She hadn’t even tried to send him away.
After all, Cassius was the big benefactor, and this little cupcake was like a junior benefactor.
But kids‘ thoughts were always so unpredictable, so she didn’t dwell on it. Instead, she suggested,
“How about I take you to the amusement park?”
Noah’s eyes lit up instantly.
He’d never been to one before!
Uncle Cass had always restricted his movements.
He really wanted to ride the Ferris wheel
“Yes, yes, let’s go!”
At the amusement park, with so many people around, Archibald would never find him.
“Gemma, let’s leave now! I want to ride the Ferris wheel, the pendulum, and the roller coaster. You have to ride with me!”
Noah tugged at her hand, trying to drag her outside. Gemma laughed and said, “No rush. We’re waiting for Brian.”
Noah froze. “Huh?”
Uncle Cass, Uncle Cass…
I tried my best!
