“Mommy!”
Hearing their persistent cries, Nicole sighed. The word “Mommy” was particularly irritating today, as if reminding her that she was just a substitute.
They’re thinking of me as a substitute—Evan too!
But as she thought it over, she decided that was unfair. The children just wanted a mother’s love. There was nothing wrong with that.
Perhaps it was fate that she and the kids met each other.
I’m going to be leaving in a few days anyway. I might as well act as their mother’s replacement for now.
With this thought in mind, she curled her lips up in a happy smile and got out of bed.
Opening the door, she was greeted by four excited faces staring up at her.
“Mommy, hurry! We have to eat breakfast! We’re going to Rose Garden today.”
“I got it.”
Breakfast was all of Nicole’s favorite foods. Evan had left specific instructions for the maids about what the old Nicole used to love to eat. Since everything was suited to her tastes, she did not hesitate in eating more.
Maya stared at her mother with a pout on her lips. “Mommy, you passed on your shameless genes to Nina and gave me your gluttonous genes!”
Nicole blinked, staring at the small mountain of shrimp shells and empty plates in front of her. She stopped eating and shot the girl a sheepish smile. “The food here is just too good.”
“Then you should stay here forever! That way you’ll be able to eat all this delicious food every day!”
Nicole was rendered speechless.
This chubby little girl has the most interesting ideas! Does she seriously think I’ll be won over by some tasty food—that I’ll be willing to be their substitute mother just like that? No way! I still plan on having a few adorable babies of my own!
“So will you?”
Seeing that Nicole was lost in her thoughts, Maya reached out to tug on her mother’s sleeve. A pair of earnest and bright eyes gazed up at her.
Pulling her lips up into a smile, Nicole’s eyes glinted as she replied, “We’ll see. I’ll think about it.”
Maya pouted and declared, “I’ll go wherever you go!”
Nicole sighed. She’s really become dependent on me as her mother!
“Daddy’s here!”
The words had barely left Juan’s mouth when Evan strode over.
Upon noticing the empty plates before Nicole, a small, amused smile curved his lips.
Nicole ducked her head in embarrassment. He doesn’t think I’m as gluttonous as Maya, does he?
He did not bring the topic up. Instead, he said, “If you’re done, go get ready. We’re going to Rose Garden.”
She stood up and rushed to her room.
Evan watched her retreating back, adoration shining in his eyes.
Turning his head to look at the maid who came to clear away the table, he ordered, “Take note of what she likes to eat. Prepare the same for her tonight.”
“Yes, Mr. Seet!”
The maid glanced at the table, mentally taking note of the empty plates. After that, she continued cleaning up the table.
Nicole changed into some casual clothing before exiting her room. The four kids instantly surrounded her, complimenting her attire and saying how pretty she looked.
Delighted, she smiled down at them. Sensing a gaze on her, she lifted her head to lock eyes with Evan. His eyes were filled with affection.
Her heart skipped a beat. He’s thinking of me as her replacement again, isn’t he? Jerk! I’m no substitute!
She mentally rolled her eyes at him. Taking the two little girls’ hands, she led them toward the living room and out the house.
Evan held the boys hands and followed them.
The Maybach exited Imperial Garden and headed in the direction of Rose Garden.
The entire way there, the four children chattered happily and the atmosphere in the car was cheerful.
At Hillside Villa.
Susan’s frail form stood in the yard, staring at the vegetation glumly.
The first thing Evan did after waking up today was to hurry over to meet with Nicole and the children. He had not even eaten breakfast before he left!
It’s obvious they all hold important places in his heart!
“Ms. Susan, breakfast is ready. You should come in and eat while the food’s hot.”
Susan smiled and answered, “Have the butler prepare some children’s toys. I’ll be visiting the children later.”
“Understood. You’re really nice to them, Ms. Susan.”
