Chapter 25
Feeling the weight of concern and regret, Andy let out a sigh as he watched Cherise walk away, leaving a cold trail behind her. He turned and headed back to the Leach manor, his though heavy.
Cherise strolled down the neighborhood path, her face a blank gate, her loneliness amplified by the deserted garden around
het.
It was summer, yet there was an unwelcome chill in the air.
As Cherise neared her building, she slowed her pace. There, she spotted Morris, poised on a stone bench, smoking with an air of nobility that effortlessly exuded grace.
sweater and black trousers gave off a casual yet sophisticated vibe. The light smoke around him seemed to amplify his frown, a clear sign of his unease
Upon hearing footsteps, Morris raised his head, his frown disappearing as he extinguished his cigarette and disposed of it in a nearby trash can. He strode towards Cherise, saying in greeting “You’re back.”
Cherise, her bewilderment evident, questioned, “Morris, what brings you to my place!
I’ve been waiting for your return, Morris said, his tone grave. “Tye been here for quite some time. I require your assistance with a matter, and since I was unaware of your whereabouts or how to contact you, I found myself waiting here
Intrigued, Cherise asked, “What kind of assistance could I possibly provide to you?”
Tve been waiting ages, and I’m starving, Morris remarked, steering the conversation in a new direction. “Why don’t join me for a bite to eat?
Noticing a chill in Cherise’s demeanor, he swiftly continued, “There’s a charming little place around the comer where I frequent. They serve an exceptional beef stew. I’d be grateful for the company. What do you think?
Cherise wasn’t keen on the idea of being alone with Morris, but the thought of the beef stew caused her stomach to growl, a stark reminder that she hadn’t had much to eat at the Leach family’s boisterous meal.
Tine, she conceded, a tinge of interest taking the edge off her previous coolness.
With a faint grin, Morris guided Cherise to his parked Maybach taking the driver’s seat himself. Cherise slipped into the passenger side, quietly observing the passing scenery,
Morris inclined closer, and the scent of tobacco and cologne sumounded Cherise.
As she turned to face him, she found his appealing features unexpectedly close, prompting a slight frown of bewilderment at his proximity.
“Cherise, about your seatbelt,” he prompted, his arm stretch
across her to secure the seatbelt and fasten it.
“Alright, let’s be on our way, he said, reestablishing some space between them.
The Maybach glided away from Glenshire Gardens and onto the road.
Morris sensed Cherise’s foul mood. Cherise, typically distant, appeared more somber than usual.
Then, the soothing and elegant strains of piano music filled the interior. It was a composition born from the depths of the composer’s grief after war and the loss of his loved ones, a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
The music’s rhythmic swells and poignant notes, conveying a spectrum of sorrow, desolation, and the promise of hope. seemed to connect with Cherise, softening the edges of her distress from the evening’s ordeal with the Leach family.
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Chapter 25
The head of the Chivers family, a pillar among the four great families, had the resources to know about anyone they wished
Cherise glanced at Morris with a touch of gratitude; he remained dignified and flawless, and it appeared as though a subtle wave had disturbed the calm of her heart.
Soon, they pulled up to the exclusive dining spot. Stepping out of the car, they were welcomed by a cozy, vintage–style establishment, devoid of a sign but distinguished by roses flanking the entrance, their scent greeting them as they approached.
“Let’s head in,” Morris said, gesturing for Cherise to enter.
Cherise walked alongside Morris, her five–foot–seven frame looking particularly petite next to his tall and commanding presence. Together, the striking duo–a handsome man and a beautiful woman–turned heads wherever they went.
Cherise cast her gaze upward towards Morris, undeniably handsome, a man deemed risky by many, yet in his presence, she felt an inexplicable sense of ease.
