The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo)

Chapter 2915

"You're a Tanner now, and your grades reflect on the entire Tanner family, sweetheart. If your grades slip, it's not just you who looks bad, but the whole family! We can't have that, can we? Sweet Madeline, listen to me, okay? Just stay in and hit the books, keep me company, will you?” Imogen pleaded, holding her daughter's hand tightly, refusing to let her leave.

Lately, Imogen felt uneasy, her anxiety levels through the roof every time Madeline mentioned going out. She couldn't shake the feeling that something big was about to happen.

But Madeline firmly pulled away. “Don’t worry, Mom, I'm just heading out to grab some books. I'll be back before you know it. If it makes you feel better, I'll FaceTime you, okay?” The more Madeline resisted, the more Imogen was convinced her daughter was hiding something. But what could she do, especially now, heavily pregnant?

Soon, Regina would come downstairs, and they'd have to share a meal, a task that became increasingly difficult for Imogen whenever Regina was at the table. The feeling, it seemed, was mutual.

Yet, for the sake of gathering more information, she continued to dine with the family.

Regina, however, never compromised on treating herself well, especially since Nolan seemed to know exactly what she was up to. Every time she returned from the Tanner household, Nolan would whisk her off in his car, exploring the city’s culinary delights. From fancy hotels to hole-in-the-wall diners, Nolan knew them all.

With each outing, Regina found herself understanding and, paradoxically, growing attached to him. And deep down, Regina couldn't help but wonder: Did patient, kind Nolan not harbor an feelings for her?

She knew the answer but was too afraid to get closer.

Today's lunch was no exception, and Francis’ frustration was palpable when Madeline was absent again. “Isn't she on break? Why is she always out and about? Don't you care about her education?” Imogen rushed to explain, “No, no, she’s with her classmates at the library. She even FaceTimed me earlier. I wouldn't be okay with her constantly running around.”

Regina casually mentioned, “Which library is that? I have a membership in one of the libraries. I could lend Madeline my card if she needs it.”

Imogen forced a smile, “That's alright. Madeline has enough for a library card. Her dad makes sure she’s never short on pocket money.”

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08:30

"Oh, so she's taking her studies seriously, then?”

Imogen nodded vigorously and said, “Yes, yes.

"And how were her grades last semester? Even if the international school isn't top-ranked, father still needs to know. It matters for her future, in case we consider sending her abroad for college.” my

Regina's sudden interest in Madeline's academic performance took even Francis by surprise. “What's gotten into you today? Caring so much about your sister?”

Regina smiled. “Just thinking it's time to let bygones be bygones. I've grown up, and it's time to move on. We're family, after all, aren't we? So, Imogen, how did Madeline do? If she’s struggling, I could help find tutors. You don't want her stuck here forever, right?”

Imogen doubted Regina's intentions. The notion of Regina genuinely wanting to help Madeline seemed far-fetched to her.