The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2834
Regina blinked her eyes, “But what if something unexpected happens?”
Francis’ response was firm and unequivocal, “There won’t be anything unexpected. Trust me.”
Deep down, Regina wanted to ask if he would rush to her side just as quickly if she and those two women were in trouble at the
same time. But asking that would make her seem petty.
She didn’t want to burden her dad, who was already working so hard, with such a question. Plus, she feared hearing his answer
or seeing any hint of hesitation.
Francis kept soothing Regina until she finally drifted off into a deep sleep. Perhaps it was the comfort of having her father by her
side, she slept without nightmares this time, waking only when the morning light crept through the curtains.
She woke up feeling unrealistic.
Francis had kept his promise and stayed by her side. Now he stood by the window, sipping a cup of coffee. Though not old, he
was feeling the weight of the years. He had hardly slept last night and needed the caffeine to make it through the day.
“You’re awake! Are you hungry? Shall I have breakfast brought up?” Francis said, his face lighting up as he approached her.
“Dad, you had a long night. Thank you.” Regina said, appreciating his efforts.
“Taking care of my own daughter is no trouble at all. How about I get you some breakfast?” he suggested.
Regina nodded, and before Francis could call for a meal, there was a knock at the
They exchanged a knowing smile.
“Could it be you ordered room service in advance? How else would it arrive so quick
He didn’t answer but just smiled and opened the door to find Imogen and Madeline standing there.
“Come on in, you’re up early.”
Regina’s smile faded instantly. She had not expected to see those two irksome people firs thing in the morning, especially
Imogen, who had brought breakfast under the guise of a caring visit.

“Really, drinking such strong coffee this early? Regina exchanged a concerned look with Francis, who simply chuckled, “I have to
admit that I’m not as young as I used to be. Regina had a rough night. I stayed up for her, and I’m feeling it this morning. I’ve got
at meeting later, and I need this coffee to keep me going.”
“If you’d told me, I could’ve had Emma whip up some of her revitalizing broth for you.” Imogen said, setting out the breakfast
items. “Regina, Emma prepared these pastries just for you. They’re all your favorites. Why not have some to start your day?”
Madeline also chimed in, almost as if she was worried Regina would refuse out of spite.
“Yes, sis, you need to build your strength and eat breakfast. Mom was worried you wouldn’t want her cooking, so she specifically
asked Emma to make something. Emma’s culinary skills are second to none, and I wouldn’t get to enjoy her specialty dishes at
home if it weren’t for you.”
Madeline stuck out her tongue playfully, but the sight only made Regina feel nauseous.
Emma had joined the Tanner family through Regina’s mother and naturally favored her and her daughter. She was the keeper of
some old-fashioned, intricate recipes that resulted in exceptionally delicious food but were too complex for her to bother with
unless Regina requested them. Even Francis didn’t receive such attention.
“Thank you for all these.” Regina managed to say, not outright declining the offer.
Imogen promptly placed a plate on her bedside table.