"Eddy, my parents are flying in tonight. Can you come out to dinner with us? Even if it's just for a little while?" Jeannette's sweet, gentle voice made Blanche pause what she was doing.
Eddy's expression softened. "Sure, I'll join you all for dinner."
"That's wonderful, Eddy."
But when Eddy stepped out, there was nobody waiting for him in the hallway.
After leaving the hospital, Blanche went straight back to work at the office. Not long after, Eddy arrived as well.
"Hey, are you feeling alright?" he asked, concern in his voice.
"I'm fine," Blanche replied coolly.
"Look," Eddy said, pulling out a photo and handing it to her. "It's a picture of Lara."
Blanche's gaze landed on the birthmark at the back of Lara's neck—a cluster of small petals. Her eyes darkened. "How is this possible?"
"Lara's birthday is April 20th, 2021. It's the exact day we lost our daughter," Eddy said, his voice trembling with hope as he clasped Blanche's hand. "Do you think it's possible? Could our daughter have come back to us?"
"Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Blanche pushed his hand away, picking up the photo for a closer look.
Eddy seemed oblivious to her reaction. "The first time I saw her, it was the birthmark that caught my attention. I just… I worried telling you would only bring you more pain."
He took a breath. "Let's adopt her. Please."
Blanche studied him, his unwavering gentleness and affection giving nothing away. She replied quietly, "Alright."
"Let's do it the way you suggested, at Healy's birthday party—adopt Lara in front of all the Novandria elite." For someone usually so reserved, a rare flicker of warmth touched Eddy's face.
Blanche nodded softly.
Eddy noticed she was still gazing at the photo, her eyes shining with unshed tears. He assumed she was thinking of their lost daughter, and set the photo down. "Head home after work, okay? I have a late meeting with the overseas team tonight. Don't wait up."
Blanche didn't look at him.
Once the office door shut behind him, Blanche tore the photo in half and tossed the pieces in the trash.
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