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 become 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 clacking 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 in laughter. Leanne, who wasn’t hungry, found herself accepting 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 call last 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, laughing softly. “You keep eating. I’ve got another place 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-prestigious complex 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 planted 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 a complicated 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, come in.”

“I won’t be coming 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.”