Chapter 354
Teresa composed herself. “It’s not Mr. Lynn. I’m single. Alright, let’s get back to the meeting.”
After the meeting concluded, Teresa finally had a chance to relax in her office. She pulled open the curtains, letting the afternoon sunlight stream in. The office was bright and airy, and the large sofa by the window was perfect for basking in the sun. Teresa stretched out on it, enjoying a rare moment of peace. Looking out at the familiar buildings and streets of Nareigh, she felt a deep sense of comfort. It was so soothing that she couldn’t help but drift off for a nap; God knew how long it had been since she’d last taken one.
She slept soundly through the afternoon. When she finally awoke, Teresa stretched lazily, glanced over some files, and began getting ready to go home. She had to admit, living in Nareigh felt right. It was almost like stepping back in time—no Jennifer holding her back, no interference from Jonathan’s family. Just her son and closest friends were by her side.
But she knew all too well that this comfort was only possible because she had started her own company, and Jonathan had helped her do it. Even the license plate of the Porsche she drove was arranged by Jonathan. Even though she’d given him her bank card and tried to repay him, some debts couldn’t be settled so easily. All she could do was keep telling herself to move on, that the past was behind her.
Still, she couldn’t help thinking about him—especially remembering how worn out he’d looked the last time they met in Everport. He’d told her he’d been so busy with work that he hadn’t slept in days. “Is he doing okay now?” Teresa wondered. She knew it was just a passing thought, but perhaps having that little bit of concern in her heart made her appreciate her life even more.
Teresa went to the supermarket. She picked up some chicken drumsticks and fries, planning to air-fry them for a quick meal. At the checkout, she noticed a couple ahead of her, leaning close together. When she caught sight of the ring on the woman’s finger, something suddenly clicked in her mind. She hurried through payment and rushed home.
Michael bounced around her, arms crossed in protest. “Mom, you’re home so late! I’m mad at you.” But Teresa barely paid him any attention, already digging through drawers and rummaging through her suitcase. Michael crouched down and tugged at her sleeve. “Mom, what are you looking for? Want me to help?”
Teresa replied, “No need, honey. I bought grape egg tarts. Go have one first.”
“Wow!” The little guy dashed off to the kitchen, while Teresa continued searching, even checking Michael’s room just in case. There was still no sign of the ring. She realized she might not have brought it with her and wondered, “Could I have left it back in Everport?” Growing anxious, she pulled out her phone and called the agent.
The agent said, “Ms. Johnston, the transfer for your apartment is complete. As for whether the new owner changed the locks, I really don’t know, and I can’t go check the place for you anymore.”
Teresa replied, “Alright, thanks for your help. I’ll get in touch with the new owner myself.”
The employee from Horizonlead Group’s branch told Teresa honestly, “That apartment was bought by Mr. Lynn.”
Teresa paused, a little stunned. “Mr. Lynn? You mean Jonathan?”
“Yes, that’s right. I’ve already bought a new place in the school district, so your old apartment in Jadeleaf Apartments now belongs to Mr. Lynn,” explained the employee.
“Oh, got it.” Teresa hung up and sat down heavily on the edge of her bed, feeling drained. “Jonathan bought that apartment. Would he find the ring left behind?” she wondered.