Chapter 181
Sean raised his hand and pointed under the camellia tree. “Do you see it?”
It turned out that signs were displayed everywhere, each indicating the variety and characteristics of the flowers.
Josie was speechless. Her face flushed, and she looked somewhat embarrassed. “I didn’t see it!”
“Yeah, I guessed it.” Sean led her to a nearby chair and sat down. “Generally, people only notice the vibrant flowers blooming above, while overlooking everything else. Just like those who ignored you.”
Sean winked at her and added, “But I am different from the others. I always perceive their true nature first.”
“Well…” Josie hesitated, unable to meet his gaze and looking aside. “What do you perceive of me?”
Sean raised his hand and rubbed her hair. “A clever, kind, and soft-hearted young girl. Sometimes a bit silly. In short, you make one feel protected.”
It seemed that everything he said was correct. Josie blinked and said, “I will strive not to be foolish in the future.”
“I don’t mind.” Sean, unable to resist, pinched her cheek once more. “There is a certain charm in your occasional naivety. Moreover, now that you have us, we will look after you and ensure that you do not repeat such mistakes when it comes to matters of principle.”
This feeling was rather strange. When Josie thought of Delilah and Claire, she suddenly felt as if she had parental figures. Moreover, their presence was especially kind and loving.
Josie was quite happy, happy enough to take advantage of the situation. “Can I call you by your name from now on?”
“Want to call me by my name?” Sean narrowed his eyes and looked at her.
Josie’s heart gave a tremor, and she lowered her head in embarrassment. “It’s fine if you don’t want to. I was asking casually.”
She felt she was nothing but an ugly countryside girl, yet she presumptuously tried to climb up to the Reedshaw family of Aloville. It felt as if she had lost sight of her place to dare utter such words.
Seeing the look of disappointment on her face, Sean could not bear it. “I don’t see anything wrong with it. Besides, our relationship is a bit closer now anyway. It doesn’t mean anything serious.”
“I didn’t say no.” Sean ruffled her hair once more. “Don’t overthink it. Eat your cake first.” He reached out and opened the bag he had brought. Inside was a four-inch cake.
Claire had said that she wanted someone to buy her a cake after dinner, but there was not enough time to do so. But Sean remembered this. He had hurried to the mall earlier to buy a cake for Josie.
Josie felt a sweet happiness in her heart. Being cherished by someone was simply the best feeling. “Thank you, Sean!” She reached out to take the cake.
Josie’s voice was crisp and carried a childish tone. When she addressed someone sweetly, her voice seemed to hook one in. Especially being called by his name, it truly sent a tremor through the very tip of Sean’s heart.
It made Sean uncomfortable. He felt so awkward. But looking at Josie eating her cake without a care in the world, still so clueless, he couldn’t do anything but endure it.
Josie felt too embarrassed to eat an entire cake, so she gave half of it to Sean. After appreciating the flowers and enjoying the cake, Josie felt much better.
The bit of discomfort Kyle brought her had become less significant as she had made new friends and had more important things to work on. A person who did nothing but harm and exploit her was not worthy of her attention.
By the time they returned to school, it was already late. Sean accompanied her all the way to the entrance of the dormitory. Josie waved at him and said, “Sean, you should head back now. I can go up by myself. Thank you for today. I am beyond happy!”
“Glad to know.” Sean raised his hand. “You slacked off all afternoon, so make sure to catch up tonight. If you don’t pass the assessment tomorrow, don’t come crying!”