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Chapter 17

last update Last Updated: 2025-12-14 23:49:39

“Where are you going, son?” Lilian asked, looking up from the couch as the sound of a zipper echoed through the hallway.

Simon paused in the doorway of his room. “Oh hey, Mom.” He lifted his duffel bag. “I’m heading to my apartment for a bit. I just need to take care of some things. I won’t be gone long, I promise.”

Lilian’s brows immediately drew together. She rose to her feet, slowly. “Your apartment?” she repeated. “So you’re leaving me alone in this huge house?”

She looked around pointedly, then back at him, her lips turning downward as she exaggerated a pout, eyes softening into full puppy mode.

Simon groaned. “Mooom, don’t do that.” He dropped the bag and walked over to her. “You know I hate when you do that.”

She folded her arms. “I’ll just be here. All by myself.”

“Mom,” he laughed, pulling her into a hug, “I’ll be back soon. I swear. I’m not moving out again or anything. It’s just a quick trip.”

She rested her head against his chest, sighing dramatically. “You always say that
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