When Audrey first brought Shaun back from the orphanage, John was displeased with the boy’s sudden arrival. Right now, it seemed like John was deliberately picking on Shaun.
Although Shaun had saved Audrey’s life, I couldn’t help but agree with John’s suspicions.
In comparison to Summer and Gregory, Audrey had always been more playful and lively. However, she still knew how to control herself in the right situations. Knowing Audrey’s character, this drowning accident did not sit right with me.
When John said that, a tense atmosphere filled the room. No one tried to refute his statement too.
After a few moments, Dr. Evans was the first to break this awkward silence.
“Although he’s in a stable condition, he’s displaying some symptoms of malnutrition. During this period of rest, it’d be best if you could be more mindful of his diet. If not, it might have devastating consequences when he’s older,” Dr. Evans instructed.
“We will keep that in mind. Thank you so much, Dr. Evans,” I said gratefully.
“Mrs. Fuller, please don’t thank me. I was merely fulfilling my duty as a doctor. If there isn’t anything else, will it be all right if I take my leave?”
“Sure,” Ashton replied nonchalantly.
After Ashton dismissed him, Dr. Evans and the nurse left the room.
In the wake of the doctor’s departure, Yuna, James, and Shaun were the only outsiders left in the Fuller residence.
Clearly, John’s pointed remark had affected Yuna and James. Their delight upon hearing that Shaun was fine had morphed into one of worry and pain. Before we could say anything, Yuna stepped forward. “Mr. Fuller, Mrs. Fuller, since Shaun is in such a weak state, it wouldn’t be wise for him to go embark on a long journey. Why don’t we bring him home another day?”
Judging from the look of worry scrawled all over Yuna’s face, she must be feeling sympathetic toward Shaun. As a woman myself, I could empathize with her feelings.
Shaun’s adoption was something Ashton and I agreed on. Hence, it was bound to happen sooner or later. Nevertheless, it wouldn’t hurt to delay it for a week. This way, we can repay our gratitude to Shaun for saving Audrey’s life.
Before I could reply, I heard Ashton’s husky voice echo behind me. “Can you stand it?”
Immediately, I whirled around and noticed Ashton looking at Shaun. Clearly, Ashton was telling Shaun that his adoption would proceed no matter what.
Even when talking to a young child, Ashton remained as headstrong as ever. How is he so bold? If I were in his shoes, I wouldn’t even know where to start. Maybe that’s why we are so compatible together. After all, opposites attract. There are some things that we just can’t do alone.
Promptly, silence descended over the room. We were all stunned by Ashton’s coldness toward Shaun. At the same time, everyone was waiting for Shaun’s reply. As everyone waited with bated breath, the room was so silent that one could hear a pin drop.
We had kept Audrey in the dark about Shaun’s adoption. Hence, she assumed that Ashton was merely asking Shaun if he was strong enough. “Shaun, Daddy is asking if you can stand up and play with me! Quick, stand up! I’ll cheer you on.” Audrey clapped her hands excitedly to encourage him.
The stark contrast between Audrey’s cheerful demeanor and our solemn expressions was glaring. Despite that, everyone remained silent as they did not reveal the harsh truth.
Ashton’s gaze was devoid of any pity. In fact, it was as cold as ice. Wordlessly, he stared at Shaun as a menacing aura began to emanate from his tall figure.
After Shaun locked gazes with Ashton for several moments, he seemed to admit defeat. Quickly, he yanked the blanket away and clambered out of bed.
“Mr. Fuller, I’m fine.” Shaun raised his head to look at Ashton. “The housekeeper has already informed me of this arrangement. I will leave at once.”
“Shaun, where are you going?” Audrey asked cluelessly.
Shaun glanced at Ashton before he tilted his head to look at Audrey. He smiled at her and said, “I’m going to buy the world’s sweetest lollipop for Ms. Audrey! Can you promise me to stay at home until I return?”
“The world’s sweetest lollipop?” Audrey mulled over Shaun’s offer before a bright smile broke across her face. “All right! But you have to promise to return as fast as you can. If you don’t, I won’t play with you again!”
“I promise.” Shaun nodded before his gaze darted toward Yuna and James. “I’ll be leaving now,” he murmured.
