Chapter 100 You’re The Only One I Care About
Renee had never intended to get into William’s car, but when Felix spotted William, he lit up and stretched out his arms.
“Mr. Mitchell, can I have a hug?” he asked with childlike innocence.
Felix, still too young to understand the complexities of the adults around him, left Renee with no choice but to yield, perhaps conceding to the natural bond between a
father and his son.
Meanwhile, Ryland didn’t waste a moment, grabbing an excuse to call a cab and slip away. The mere thought of another ride in William’s car was enough to send his nerves spiraling, risking his composure and health.
Once settled in the car, William broke the silence with a casual inquiry. “Are you staying at Rose Villa now?”
But before Renee could reply, Felix chimed in with youthful eagerness, “Mr. Mitchell, how do you know where we live? Have you visited us there?”
His excitement was palpable as he leaned forward to engage further with William, but Renee tugged him back firmly, cautioning him. “Felix Carter, stay in your seat, please.”
As William navigated through the traffic, he ventured another question, one laden with implications, “Why does Felix bear your last name?”
“He’s my son, why wouldn’t he?” Renee replied sharply, her words edged with a cold clarity designed to distance William.
Sensing her intent to erect barriers, William proceeded cautiously. “What I meant was, why wasn’t he using his father’s family name?”
“So, you’re still wondering who Felix’s father is, huh?” Renee remarked with a biting sarcasm, her smile tinged with scorn. She then turned the tables, probing him pointedly. “Since you’re aware Felix is my son from another relationship, why then do you persist in refusing to sign the divorce papers?”
William’s face was a mask of tranquility, his voice flat and emotionless as he muttered, “You’re the only one I care about.”
“That’s hardly the truth. You’re just being possessive,” Renee retorted, her voice laced with frustration.
Felix, who was lost in the complexities of the adults‘ conversation, scrutinized Renee’s troubled expression. Observing her discomfort, he pouted and voiced his unhappiness. “Mommy, Mr. Mitchell, please don’t fight.”
William’s voice softened, a gentle tone to reassure Felix. “Hey buddy, we’re not fighting. We’re just having a little chat, that’s all. Tell you what, how about I whip up something delicious for you later? What would you like?”
“William!” Renee was about to cut in, ready to challenge his assumption that he could just show up at her house uninvited and even use her kitchen.
But before she could speak, Felix clapped his hands with delight, his excitement spilling over. “Woohoo! Mr. Mitchell, do you know how to make grilled chicken wings? I absolutely love grilled chicken wings!”
“Of course, buddy. Consider it done,” William responded, his tone warm and accommodating.
Renee was at a loss for words. The urge to leap out of the car and leave them to their bonding surged within her, but she remained seated, her emotions a tangled mess.
“Look, there’s a supermarket ahead. How about we pull over and grab some groceries?” William suggested, breaking into her thoughts.
Renee’s response was a tight crossing of her arms, her frustration boiling over, making her body rigid and unyielding. However, Felix’s gentle tug at her hand and his pleading eyes melted her resolve. “Mommy, I can’t even remember the last time we went grocery shopping together…” His voice was a soft, pitiful whisper that tugged at her heartstrings.
The truth hit Renee hard. Raising Felix alone, she had deprived him of a father’s presence. She was far from the ideal mother she aspired to be, always buried in work, turning even a simple grocery run into an unattainable luxury. Guilt washed over her as she realized how little time she spent with him, never managing weekend amusement park visits or tranquil evening walks.
Finally, she relented with a sigh, “Alright…”
She failed to notice the satisfied smile that played on William’s lips as he observed their interaction.
As the three of them, each strikingly attractive in their own right, entered the supermarket, they turned heads and drew numerous curious glances.
William, seizing the moment, led Felix to the children’s toy section. “Go ahead, Felix, pick anything you like. I’ll get it for you.”
“This is great! Thank you, Mr. Mitchell! Mommy, mommy, Mr. Mitchell is buying me new toys! Is it okay?” Felix’s glee was palpable, his voice echoing down the aisles.
Maintaining a sharp gaze, Renee warned, “No shouting in public, boy.”
Despite her firm tone, she didn’t want to dampen his spirits, especially now that they were here. Her sternness faded slightly as she added, “Fine, you can choose one toy,
and nothing too expensive.”
“Okay!” Felix agreed enthusiastically, nodding with such vigor it was comical.
William then hoisted him up, making their way to the shelves to pick a toy. As they moved, William leaned in and whispered playfully into Felix’s ear, “Choose what you really like, Felix. Don’t worry about the price. I’ve got it covered.”
