Chapter 72 Can We Invite
Him
The Dark River Operation had been a resounding success, and the agent codenamed “Rose” had once again proven her exceptional skill. This mission, which had been postponed for years due to the dangerous and elusive criminals involved, had been plagued with failed attempts. Several undercover officers had been sent in before, only to be discovered and tortured by the gang as a challenge to the police. The risk had been too great, and authorities had hesitated to act again.
But this time, the operation was revived–thanks in no small part to Rose. True to her reputation, she had dismantled the criminal organization and brought the elusive “big boss” into the light.
Renee had successfully completed her mission, but Felix still needed time to recover
from his injuries. Originally, she had planned to return to Oclya with him immediately after the mission, but that plan was now on hold.
Despite her wish to visit Felix in the hospital, she had to keep a low profile due to her unique status. The fewer people who knew about their relationship, the safer Felix would be.
That evening, as Renee approached Felix’s hospital room, she heard his giggles coming from inside. She assumed Ryder was with him, but when she entered, she was surprised to find William instead.
“Mommy! Mommy! Mr. Mitchell told me a really funny story!” Felix exclaimed, grinning
ear to ear.
Renee smiled softly and stroked Felix’s head. It had been a while since she had seen her son this happy. Could this joy be because of William?
“Felix, I told you not to talk to strangers. Why didn’t you remember that?” Renee asked, avoiding William’s gaze, knowing his expression would be anything but pleasant.
Felix looked at her with a touch of grievance and earnestly explained, “Mommy, Mr. Mitchell isn’t a stranger.”
“Felix is correct,” William said, his tone turning lighthearted. He even teased Renee, “That’s not good parenting, Renee.”
Renee’s irritation flared. “How do you suggest then? Felix is my son. I get to decide how to raise him,” she retorted sharply.
As soon as the words left her mouth, she realized she might have overreacted, especially in front of William. He was sharp and she always feared that one day, he would find out Felix was his son.
“Mommy… are you upset?” Felix asked cautiously, his small face filled with concern.
He shifted slightly, wincing from the pain in his injured foot, and she immediately scooped him up, holding him gently in her arms.
“I’m not upset. I’m just sad that you’re injured, baby. How about we go back to Oclya in a few days?” she said softly, trying to reassure him.
“Yay!” Felix clapped his hands in excitement. But then his expression shifted, and he tilted his head, looking at her curiously. “What about Daddy?”
Whenever Felix referred to Ryder as “Daddy,” Renee would correct him, but Felix was
firmly convinced that she and Ryder had simply separated.
Today, however, with William in the room, Renee didn’t correct her son. She subtly hoped William would believe Ryder was indeed Felix’s father. “He’ll return tomorrow for a mission. We’ll wait a few days until you’re discharged, and then we’ll go back,” Renee explained, keeping her tone casual.
“Mr. Mitchell, will you come back to Oclya with us?” Felix suddenly asked, turning to
William.
Renee didn’t look directly at William, but she caught the mischievous glint in his smile from the corner of her eye. He reached over to pinch Felix’s cheek playfully before responding, “Sure. Will you invite me to stay with you at your place?”
Felix was absolutely delighted by the idea, almost nodding in agreement. But before he could, he turned quickly to Renee, his eyes wide with pleading. “Mommy, can we invite him? He doesn’t have anywhere to stay. Please, Mommy,” Felix pleaded, his voice soft and filled with sincerity.