Chapter 77

Teresa grew serious. “No, you can’t go.”

Michael was determined to attend the event. He wanted to meet Jonathan and ask for a strand of his hair. Teresa and Michael reached an impasse until Sherry intervened.

“Mike, be good and stay here. Don’t you want Mr. Lime to be your dad? You can’t go and act as a third wheel. This way, your mom and Mr. Lime can have a chance to be alone,” Sherry explained, winking at Michael.

Michael finally nodded. “All right, I won’t go.” He turned and left with a pout.

Teresa remained uneasy, so she asked Sherry to stay home and watch Michael.

Soon, it was time for Teresa to leave. She headed for the opening ceremony at Teresouth Group’s entrance. Hayden was already there. Teresa was delighted, embracing him. Donald also arrived, while Cheryl sent word that she was busy and couldn't attend. Teresa had also invited Edward. Initially, he was thrilled, but upon seeing Miriam, he quickly retreated to the other side of the room.

Seeing Miriam approach, Edward offered to get beverages.

“Edward, stop right there,” Miriam called. Devastated, she explained she had considered staying home but came upon hearing Edward was attending.

Edward turned around, scratching his neck. “Oh, Miriam, you’re here too.”

Miriam gave a wry smile. “There’s no need for polite small talk. I didn’t realize you disliked me so much.” Wiping her tears, she continued, “I promise I won’t bother you anymore. You don’t have to avoid me or run away whenever you see me.” She turned and left.

Edward watched her go, feeling a pang of regret.

Meanwhile, Teresa checked her watch. The opening ceremony was scheduled for 10:30 a.m., and it was already 10 a.m., yet Jonathan hadn’t arrived. Donald tried calling Jonathan but couldn’t reach him.

Edward added, “I tried calling him too, but he didn’t answer. I hope nothing serious has happened.”

Teresa’s heart skipped a beat. She called Jonathan, but he was unreachable.

Soon, it was time for the opening ceremony. A bouquet from Benny arrived, with a message of good wishes. But Jonathan was still nowhere to be seen.

As head of Teresouth Group, Teresa had to prioritize. Despite Jonathan's absence, she proceeded with the opening ceremony. Her striking figure stood out at the company entrance as she cut the ribbon in front of the red banner, to the applause of the crowd.

As confetti cannons fired, a black car pulled up. Teresa initially thought it was Jonathan’s, but her expression turned icy when she saw who it was.

Simona approached, offering a bouquet. “Congratulations on your new company’s opening. I’m here on behalf of Larkin Group to congratulate you.”

Teresa offered a strained smile. “Oh, what an honor. Thank you, Ms. Larkin.” Teresa hadn’t invited Simona and wondered where she’d heard the news.

Simona looked around and sighed. “So Jonathan didn’t show up after all. I wonder which unreliable media outlet said he’d be here.”

Teresa clenched her fist. “I invited him yesterday. He said he was busy but sent me flowers and mentioned he’d take me to dinner tonight.”

Simona’s expression fell. “So, having dinner together after the divorce, huh?”

Teresa chuckled. “What are you getting at? Can’t divorced people stay friends? And can’t they get remarried? He told me he’s single.”

Simona was livid. The unspoken implication was clear: she had no right to criticize since she wasn't Jonathan's girlfriend. With the media present, Simona dared not say more and left.

Teresa placed the flowers in the hall and anxiously turned to Edward. “Have you gotten in touch with Jonathan yet?” she asked, knowing Jonathan couldn't possibly go the whole day without contacting her.