Chapter 77
Chapter 77
When Leanne arrived at Joy’s corporate office with a lunch box, she found Joy with bags. under her
eyes, her fingers flying over the keyboard as she drafted the 180th version of a project proposal.
Every so often, Joy would put her hands together in a pleading gesture, silently beseeching the
heavens to curse her boss with a lifetime of celibacy.
Leanne’s visits had be routine. The moment Joy’s colleagues spotted Leanne, a wave of cheer
washed over the dreary workspace.
“Is Hottie Anne here to feed us again?”
“She’s got some food for Joy.” Leanne set down the lunch box. Curious heads craned to get a peek.
Joy wheeled her chair over with lightning speed. As she opened the lunch box, the sound of cking
keyboards ceased.
“Oh man, why doesn’t a beauty ever bring me lunch?”
The chubby guy beside Joy twisted his face in mock despair. “Who’s the lucky devil that gets to marry
such a gorgeous and caring wife? Do I even stand a chance?”
Leanne offered a smile. “Sure, you do.”
The chubby guy perked up, his eyes lighting up like beacons. “Really?”
Leanne chuckled. “The food is from my housekeeper. She’s single and child-free. I could
et you up if you’re interested.”
he chubby guy was at a loss for words.
Joy’s team leader, spoon in hand, sauntered over. “Joy, have you done with that proposal yet?”
“Holy shit. You just gave me the feedback half an hour ago!” Joy slurped the chowder defensively,
hugging the lunch box close. “Hey! That’s too much. Have you no shame?”
The office erupted inughter. Leanne, who wasn’t hungry, found herself epting a forkf of beef Joy
offered, and she ate without protest.
“What are
you up to this afternoon?” Joy asked. “Hang out here with me. Nancy’s out today and you could sit at
her desk with a mask on. My boss has the observational skills of a potato and won’t notice.”
Leanne rolled her eyes. “Yeah, because I took the day off to work at your office.”
“I miss you, okay?” Joy pleaded, her voice tinged with the stress of recent days. “I haven’t seen you in
ages. You didn’t even answer my callst night. Where were you?”
Chapter 77
“I was sleeping at that time,” Leanne replied, and then, on impulse, she wrapped her arms around Joy.
Joy immediately set down her meal and reciprocated the embrace, cooing, “Love you! I’m head over
heels!”
Leanne quietly patted her head. “I know.”
The team leader couldn’t stand the sweetness. “You two should just get together. When same-sex
marriage gets legalized next year, I’m voting yes.”
Joy scoffed, “If she swung that way, do you think her
hhy would stand a chance?
Leanne stood up,ughing softly. “You keep eating. I’ve got another ce to be.”
Golden Grove Manors, once a prestigious development in Stonebridge, had aged over twenty years.
The once-new buildings were now old, the once-prestigiousplex weathered by time and change,
the signs of the years etched into its exterior.
Thanks to its original high-quality standing, the residents were a refined lot, many of them retired
officials.
With its abundant green spaces, once a key selling point. The trees that had been nted all those
years ago had since grown lush and full. The neighborhood boasted everything from kindergartens to
high schools, hospitals, and supermarkets. Despite no longer being top-tier, the property values
remained the highest in the area.
Leanne rang the doorbell, and soon there were footsteps, followed by a woman’s voice asking, “Who is
it?” as the door swung open.
Upon seeing Leanne, the woman registered shock, then aplicated mix of guilt, confusion, remorse,
and a touch of sadness.
“Aunt Violet,” Leanne greeted her.
“Leanne, you’re back.” Violet’s hands were covered in flour. She must have been baking. She clumsily
wiped her hands on her stained apron and moved aside. “Please,e in.”Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.
“I won’t being in today,” Leanne said, lingering at the doorway. “I’m here to let you. know that this
house is part of my parents’ estate. I’ve decided it’s time to take it back.”