The Scent of 81

Chapter 81

The kite flew successfully up into the sky, and Celeste and Shanice smiled brightly.

While watching Celeste’s smile, Beck’s gaze darkened slightly.

Noticing his gaze, Celeste asked, puzzled, “What’s wrong?

“Nothing,” he replied simply.

Celeste didn’t press further and led Shanice a little farther away. Beck stayed nearby, keeping his promise not to intrude.

When they got tired of flying the kite, Celeste and Shanice either moved to the lakeside to fish or crouched by a vendor’s small pond, studying the little fish swimming inside before trying to catch them with small nets.

Soon, it was midday.

Beck hadn’t prepared any food since he only intended to take Shanice out for a stroll. As lunchtime approached, he saw Shanice getting hungry, so he suggested eating at a small nearby restaurant.

Having spent a relaxing couple of hours, Celeste felt much better than earlier and didn’t refuse his suggestion.

During the meal, Celeste mostly chatted with Shanice.

Seeing how well they got along, Beck didn’t try to join their conversation, content with silently moving their favorite dishes closer to them.

Celeste, engrossed in her conversation with Shanice, didn’t notice his subtle gestures.

A while later, Beck’s phone rang

Glancing at the caller ID, he said to Celeste, “I’ll take this call.”

“Alright,” Celeste replie

replied.

The call was from Miles.

Walking a bit farther away, Beck answered, “What’s up?”

“Where are you? Have you eaten? A friend of mine just sent over some fresh seafood. Why don’t you come over and have some? Trevor and the others will be there too.”

Beck glanced at Celeste and Shanice nearby, then replied calmly, “I’ve already eaten. Maybe next time.

“How about tonight? There’s a yacht party. Trevor and the others have confirmed they’ll come. Why don’t you bring your little niece along? We haven’t had the chance to meet her yet. This could be a good opportunity to introduce her to everyone.”

Beck declined again, “She’s shy and doesn’t do well with crowds. She might feel uncomfortable on the yacht.” “No worries. Jo will be there too. They’re about the same age, so they should get along. See you at seven.” Before Beck could refuse, Miles hung up.

After lunch, Celeste and Shanice spent more time together, chasing butterflies and riding bicycles.

When they were both thoroughly tired, they stopped to rest Shanice eventually fell asleep.

Celeste, also feeling the day’s exertion, decided to head home. She quietly drove off.

Chapter 11

Beck watched her car disappear into the distance before leaving as well.

Later, when Shanice woke up and didn’t see Celeste, she frowned slightly. “Where’s Ms. Rodriguez?”

“She went home,” Beck replied

“Oh…” Shanice’s disappointment was evident.

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At seven that evening, Beck boarded the yacht as scheduled

Trevor and the others had already arrived. When he saw Beck, Miles waved him over.

Upon seeing Shanice, Miles smiled and said, “This must be Shanice, the little beauty. Hello there, I’m Miles Quinton, a friend of your uncle.”

The yacht was crowded, and Shanice was shy and reserved in such a setting.

After Miles introduced himself, Wynn arrived with Jordyn in tow.

Beck hesitated briefly upon seeing them.

When she heard that Shanice was shy, Jordyn introduced herself and extended a hand, saying warmly, “There are lots of kids playing over there. Want to come with me?”

Shanice looked at Beck. Only after he nodded encouragingly did she muster the courage to follow Jordyn.

Miles grinned as the children walked away and teased, “How does it feel being a babysitter for the first time?” “It’s fine.”

Although Shanice was shy, she was well–behaved, so taking care of her wasn’t too tricky.

Trevor handed him a glass of wine. “Care for a drink?”

Chapter 82

+25 BONUS

Chapter 82