Chapter 110
The next day.
Irene made her way to Apex Group herself to sign the contract.
Once the paperwork was done, Victor glanced at his watch. “Dr. Chatham, I’ve booked a table at a restaurant tonight—would you do me the honor of joining me for dinner p>
“Mr. Winslow, I appreciate the invitation, but I have a flight to the Capital at one- thirty this afternoon. When I return, let’s get together-with Miss Kensington as well. Dinner’s on me next time p>
Victor nodded politely. “Of course. I’ll have the driver take you to the airport.” “No need,” Irene waved him off, “my own car is waiting downstairs p>
Victor accompanied her down to the lobby.
Her chauffeur-driven car was parked outside, ready. In no time, Irene was on a flight bound for the Capital.
At precisely three-thirty in the afternoon, the plane touched down.
She was in town for a conference, though the meeting itself wouldn’t start until nine the next morning. With her afternoon free, Irene decided to visit an old friend, bringing along some specialties from Silverhaven as a gift.
Soon, her cab pulled up in front of Gonzales Manor.
That’s right—she was here to visit Keira, her childhood friend. They’d grown up together, their bond as close as sisters. Even after each built her own career and family, they’d remained in close contact.
Amanda greeted her at the door.
“Dr. Chatham, you should have called ahead to let us know you were coming to the Capital! I would’ve sent someone to pick you up at the airport p>
Irene smiled warmly. “I didn’t want to trouble you, that’s all p>
As she spoke, she handed Amanda the bag she’d brought. “These are your mother’s favorite pickled vegetables and wild greens from Silverhaven. By the way, where is she p>
Amanda’s expression clouded with worry. “Mom’s had a headache these past few days. The doctor said she shouldn’t go outside for now, so she’s resting in her room p>
Concern flickered across Irene’s face. “Not feeling well? What did the doctor say p>
Amanda continued, “It’s just migraines from nerves-nothing serious, really. Please don’t worry p>
Irene nodded. “All right, let’s not waste any time. I’d like to see her p>
To be honest, her old friend had endured more than her share of hardship. Widowed young, then later her son fell into a coma. Her daughter-in-law and only granddaughter had vanished without a trace.
Eager to see Keira, Irene quickened her pace, with Amanda hurrying to keep up.
Gonzales Manor was sprawling. Even after entering the grounds, they had to take a car for another five minutes before arriving at Keira’s private wing.
Inside, Ann was tending to Keira in the bedroom.
When she saw Irene enter, Ann rose politely from beside the bed. “Lady Irene, it’s so nice to see you p>
“It’s been a while, Ann. You’re looking lovelier every year p>
“Thank you, Lady Irene p>
At Irene’s compliment, Keira turned toward her with a wistful look. “Irene, if Freya were here, don’t you think she’d be as beautiful as Ann? She was such a gorgeous baby, even when she was just a month old-big, sparkling eyes, that little upturned nose. Everyone used to say she looked just like a porcelain doll p>
Ann’s expression flickered, her gaze dropping to the floor. Amanda, standing nearby, frowned ever so slightly.
Freya. Always Freya. Her mother never mentioned anyone else, not even Ann, who was here by her side day after day.
Irene smiled and nodded. “Of course. I’m sure Freya would be every bit as lovely as Ann p>
She paused. “Keira, are your headaches very bad? Would you like me to go to the hospital with you p>
“It’s nothing, really-just an old problem.” Keira shook her head.
Amanda took the cue. “Mom, why don’t you catch up with Dr. Chatham? Ann and I will step out. Call if you need anything p>
Keira nodded. “All right, go ahead p>
After her daughter and granddaughter left, Keira’s eyes reddened as she looked at Irene. “Irene, these days I keep dreaming that Carey brings Freya home. Do you think… do you think I’ll ever see Freya again in this life p>