Fallen for Daddy's Friend のすべてのチャプター: チャプター 161 - チャプター 170

My father somehow looks different tonight. I can see feelings shining in his brown eyes, so similar to mine, and I can swear that it’s slightly wet with tears that he refuses to shed.There’s not a hair out of place in the elegant hairstyle or a wrinkle in the extremely fancy blue suit. Although Dad and Julian have a few billion dollars in assets, they don’t show it off. Of course, there’s no denying that they live comfortably and have an extremely luxurious lifestyle, but beyond what money can buy, Father tries to enjoy the things he wants without prying eyes on what’s in his pockets. And maybe because Julian admires him so much, he also carries this light-hearted personality.That’s why it’s such a surprise to be called into a restaurant like this now. It’s not the first time Dad has taken me to places like this, but every time, it feels like a first. My nerves get rattled, and my legs feel shaky. Even now, I feel a little

“Which wine should I get? Maybe 2015 to prove my point? Or maybe the best Burgundy I have here? It’s a perfect occasion, after all.” My father says enthusiastically, walking over to the shelves full of expensive wines behind the kitchen island.I run my eyes all over the lounge, observing every detail of the apartment that has been my home for the last few years. And although this is still technically my place, it feels strangely nostalgic to be here. I’ve spent so much time in Julian’s that I really don’t seem to belong in this apartment with my father anymore.My gaze falls on Julian and Daddy standing together in front of the shelf, choosing the perfect wine for the end of the evening. They’re talking so passionately that I don’t even feel like I’m here. So I take my time to appreciate how they smile at each other, how they are so at ease in each other’s presence. It makes my heart feel at peace. Still, t

— MICHAEL O’NEIL (POV)[…] 24 years ago.ㅤ “Look at this little beauty!” Jack says with a smile that almost reaches his ears. He pats the hood of the car, his newest toy, as he would say. The yellow of the sunset paints the sky and reflects in the red of the bodywork. “This baby is fast! Faster than anything I’ve ever seen!”I cross my arms, looking at the new car. It’s long, beautiful, sporty, and visibly fast. With a single glance, even a layperson can see that this thing is fast.“Faster than Mike’s car?” Julian asks with a mischievous grin. His loud voice shows that he’s up to something. “I thought Mike’s car was the fastest.”“It is,” I say with a playful tone, winking at the nine-year-old who raises his eyebrows.“I’m telling you, my baby can easily beat Mike’s speed. I mean,

The week has barely begun, and I already feel trapped in this frenetic rhythm. Exhaustion is starting to take hold of me, and I can’t wait to get it done. But Julian’s words keep echoing in my mind, making my thoughts wander. He wishes for me to meet his family after the end of the project, and that will take care of the details, but there are still two weeks until the deadline.I let out a long sigh, my shoulders tense and tired. Around me, the sound of my coworkers breathing, the click of the mouse, and their nimble fingers on their keyboards bring me back to reality, especially when a cup is suddenly placed on my table. I look up to find Ethan giving me a warm smile before turning away and walking back to his desk, also holding a coffee.Memories of the first project we worked on as a team flooded my mind. Back then, we were nine people working together to make a success of the biggest project this company. But now, there are only four of us left. Naomi, Deborah, Grace, and Laura a

Julian’s words make my heart skip a beat. But even in the face of my surprise, he continues to look at me with no sign of regret, no laughter, no hesitation... He really means it.Yet I can’t smile.Long seconds pass in my silence, and his expression gradually becomes worried. He watches my face intently, paying special attention to my brown eyes that say everything my lips cannot.I don’t say a word for a while, and neither does Julian. The silence isn’t as comfortable as I’d like, but I can’t cut it. I swallow hard, my lips trembling, overwhelmed by too many intense sensations that ache my eyes.I’ve always heard that emotions are on edge when you’re pregnant, but I never thought it was so true.Julian sits down next to me on the couch, wrapping his arm around my shoulders. I lean my head against the curve of his neck, snuggling into the warmth of his body, wrapping myself in his strong arms.