Chapter 21
sharp click, grabbed the clothes Paul handed him, and tossed them carrlely at Dolores.
hag silently and made her way. the bathroom. His voice followed her, firm and compelling, seeping through the door. “Mom’s got heck–up later. You’re coming
period”
with any updates
Yara’s condition, but taking more leave from work so soon wouldn’t look good. Tve got to work. Just shoot me a test
Adam watched her retreating back, his voice icy “So, you’re putting that damn job ahead of Mom’s health now?”
Dolores didn’t stop or offer an explanation about her job. “In two days, I should be calling her Mrs. Walcott
To Adam her words translated to a clear disinterest in Yara’s wellbeing, hinting at their impending divorce.
Larly, the word “dnorce” seemed all Dolores could talk about Adam’s patience was running thin, and he retorted sarcastically. “After three years.
would be loyal enough to stick by her side.”
Dolores spun around, stunned by his audacity to accuse her of ingratitude. She muttered under her breath. For the past three years, who’s been rushing to the hospital! Me Who’s been there handling everything? Me. Seems like he is the one who’s been less than a son
Her look was ins
fired back, “Yeah, even a dog knows to wag its tail. I’ve been cooking for you for three years, but guess that’s worth nothing to
Caught off guard by her sharp response, Adam was left speechless.
Without another word. Dolores stormed out of the suite.
On her way to Ethers Studio, she called Gail. “Gail, how are you! How’s your injury from last night?”
Kennard kicks had been harsh, each one brutally effective.
Gail breathed heavily, anger seething through her teeth. “That bastard broke my bone. I need some time to heal. I’m definitely suing, but getting the CCTV from Hovmenia will be tough”
“First thing, get your medical report, Dolores suggested. T handle the rest”
Gail quickly refused, not wanting to burden her, “Forget it. Even if we sue, he’ll only be detained briefly. I’ll find another way to deal with that fucker. He’s probably pulled this shit before, I’ll dig up more.”
Dolores leaned tiredly against the car window, her voice soft with regret. “Gail, I’m sorry. You shouldn’t have to deal with this because of me.” Gail’s laughter was w warm and reassuring. “Don’t be ridiculous Fighting the good fight with you? I’m all in”
As their chat fueled out, the car stealthily pulled up in front of Ethers Studio. Dolores hit the end call button and hung up.
She had just reached her desk when Philip called her into his office. “Doreen, could you step in here for a moment”
Entering with a sense of confusion, Dolores was unsure what was about to unfold.
Philip greeted her warmly “Doreen, mert Ms. Jennings, She’s looking for help with restoring an old painting, and you can set your own price.”
Dolores glanced in the direction Philip indicated. Alison was there, lounging on the couch with sunglasses, a bucket hat, and a black face mask, giving off a vibe of cool detachment
Hraning “Torren,” Alison slightly lifted her eyes but then quickly furrowed her brow, her disappointment palpable. “I’m sorry, Mr. Wood, it looks like we’ve got wear wires crossed. I’m after the Tureen‘ famed for her miraculous restorations, not her.”
intent of
on finding this particular “Doreen”
Both Hulip and Dolores were taken aback. Dolores couldn’t help but wonder why Alison was so Alison continued, “The painting’s really fucked up, it’s not something any run–of–the–mill apprentice can fix. I once saw a calligraphy restored by Dwern—it was absolutely breathtaking She’s elusive though, I’ve tried to track her down with no luck. I thought maybe you’d know how to reach
her
Realizing the mistake, Philip, with a knowing smile, began to explain, “Actually, she is
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Chapter 21
“Mr. Wood.” Dolores interjected swiftly. “Restoring antiques is all about the right vibe. If it’s not clicking with Ms. Jennings here, let’s not push it.”
Philip paused, sensing the weird vibe between them, and then nodded. “Yeah, that makes sense,”
Still baffled by Dolores’s previous remarks, Alison watched her start to leave. She quickly got up and blocked her path, feigning concern. “Dolores. did
you hear about Theo’s bash tonight at Seldora?”
“Nope,” Dolores replied indifferently.
Theo is such an airhead sometimes,” Alison said, feigning annoyed. As she spoke, an invitation slipped from her bag and fell to the floor.
She bent down gracefully to pick it up, pretending it was an accident. “If you don’t mind, join me tonight. Theo has been all over the place since he got back; probably forgot…
Dolores’s expression stayed cool. She looked Alison straight in the eye and said, “Ms. Jennings, do you get what and family means on an invite! Adam and I are married–sending separate invites to one household? Either you don’t know the first thing about etiquette, or is that just how your folks roll?”
