Chapter 124

Lindey seemed hesitant to continue our conversation, so I nodded, saying, "Rea, you're like a daughter to me." But if she truly felt that way, she wouldn't approve of setting me up with Wayne. Perhaps it was Wayne's idea—he did confess his feelings.

"Maybe we could have a small ceremony when Wayne and Jace have some free time. I could officially become your and Matthew's goddaughter," I suggested, noticing Lindey's expression falter briefly. It was clear she wasn't enthusiastic. In Kehlmark, godfamilies were essentially extended family, subject to the same social conventions. Becoming Lindey and Matthew's goddaughter would make dating their son akin to incest.

However, I couldn't disregard her kindness over the past decade, and I wouldn't let doubt jeopardize our relationship. "Okay," Lindey finally agreed.

I drove her back to the Johnston residence, where we encountered Jace. He was wearing a baseball cap and jersey—a stark contrast to his usual CEO attire. Seeing him like this, I was reminded of the boy I once had a crush on.

In high school, Jace would sneak out to ride his motorcycle, a reckless thrill-seeker. I'd watch him speed down the streets in his biker gear, the epitome of the rebellious bad boy I'd always imagined. I still remember our first ride; terrified, I clung to him—the closest I'd ever been. He later teased, "Holding on so tight—were you trying to take advantage of me?"

He eventually abandoned the motorcycle, exchanging casual clothes for sharp suits, transforming into the powerful CEO everyone either feared or respected. But seeing him now, in familiar attire, stirred something within me. Yet, I knew he wasn't the same person, regardless of his clothing. The baseball cap concealed yesterday's injury.

Jace's greeting was laced with sarcasm: "What? Didn't get enough hits yesterday? Here to finish me off today?"

Before I could respond, Lindey smacked his arm. "You've got some nerve. Rea went easy on you, and that's the only reason you're still standing."

"Mom, come on, I'm not your only son! Are you saying you'd rather she beat me to death? Am I even your son, or is she your real child?" Even as a powerful CEO, Jace retained his playful, goofy side at home.

"I wish I had given birth to Rea. Maybe then I wouldn't have to deal with you," Lindey retorted, her usual humor evident.

"Fine, in the next life, let her be your daughter, and I'll stay far away," Jace said, putting his arm around Lindey to avoid another smack.

Their playful banter evoked a pang of envy. If my parents were still alive, I could still act childish and seek their comfort, regardless of age. But life isn't so simple. Their closeness was overwhelming. "I should get going," I told Lindey.

"Wait," Jace called. "I need to talk to you."

"We've got nothing to talk about," I retorted, unwilling to face him. I feared losing control again. Once you start hitting someone, it's frighteningly easy to repeat.

"But I do," Jace insisted, his voice serious.

Lindey pinched his arm. "Don't you dare get all macho, or you'll have to deal with me."

"Mom, relax. My girl's my everything. I'd never hurt her," Jace declared shamelessly.

After working with him for years, I'd almost forgotten this side of him.

"Go inside, Mom. We need to talk alone," Jace coaxed, gently urging her toward the house. Lindey remained unconvinced, repeatedly glancing back, clearly uncomfortable leaving us alone.

Chapter 125