Chapter 311:

Millie tried to piece it together but came up blank.

“It’s too much to explain right now,” Charles said quickly. “The investors are still around. I need to get them settled first. Let’s talk at the office later.”

Before she could say another word, he ended the call.

Millie sat in silence, momentarily stunned.

Just then, the traffic light turned green, and Millie started the car.

Once her car was steadily on the road, she reminded herself not to get too caught up in speculation. First, she had to get Ari to kindergarten. Everything else could wait.

With that in mind, Millie turned on the car radio, hoping some music would help clear her thoughts.

The voice of the morning host came through the speakers. “Good morning, listeners. Today is…”

Millie glanced at the date on her phone.

It was the 28th day since she and Brandon filed for their divorce.

Millie took a slow breath and decided not to overthink it. First, she needed to pick up Ari and get her to kindergarten before they ran late.

Charles still had some loose ends to tie up, but he had already texted saying everything was handled—no need for her to stress.

That made her feel lighter, at least a little. She drove off to collect Ari.

But when she arrived, something felt… off.

Ari looked like she had something on her mind.

And the director of the children’s home seemed hesitant too—like she wanted to say something but kept it in.

Millie glanced from Ari to the director, giving them space to speak.

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But neither of them did.

So, Millie said nothing either. She figured if they wanted to keep it private, she’d respect that.

“Shall we go?” she asked gently.

Ari nodded. Millie smiled and slung the little backpack over her shoulder. They walked out together.

Just before heading into the kindergarten gates, Ari tugged at Millie’s sleeve. “Will you be picking me up this afternoon?” she asked.

Usually, Millie was the one who picked her up. If she couldn’t, she always made sure it was someone Ari liked—Alexia or her brother, Sheridan, or sometimes Charles.

Ari didn’t usually ask. But since she did today, Millie could tell she wanted her to come today.

She bent down to meet the girl’s eyes, gently pressing a hand to her soft, chubby cheek.

“I’ll do my best,” she said softly. “And if I really can’t, I’ll come visit you tonight. I promise you’ll still see me, okay?”

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