Katelyn cut him off decisively, “There’s no need. If he’s healthy, that’s enough. Nothing more is necessary.”
Though the attending doctor hadn’t spent much time with Katelyn, he had come to know her character. He already knew what her answer would be—she would turn him down. If that weren’t the case, she never would have set this rule in the first place.
The doctor, holding back further discussion, simply said politely, “Understood, and apologies for the intrusion.”
After the call, Katelyn couldn’t help but warn Alfy again, “Try not to eat too much.” With the seasons changing, she noted stomachs can be more susceptible.
Alfy smiled and nodded in agreement. “Sure.”
Yet, Alfy’s continued indulgence in her ice cream made Katelyn shake her head in resigned amusement.
Turning to Vincent, she asked, “How’s Sophia? Still keeping out of trouble?”
Vincent, who had been preoccupied with his phone for work, looked up to confirm. “Yes, all is well on her end.”
Acknowledging the update, Katelyn said, “I’ll check on her myself.” Vincent made no move to follow Katelyn.
As Katelyn strode toward the backyard, Alfy turned to Vincent with a worried expression. “Mr. Adams, shouldn’t you accompany her?” The unpredictable nature of Sophia was well-known. Her actions were often impulsive and reckless.
Vincent’s gaze on Alfy lacked the warmth he reserved for Katelyn, his tone cool as he responded. “Don’t sell her short. She’s hardly the type who needs someone watching over her all the time.” With that, he turned his attention back to the paperwork before him.
Sophia had yet to fulfill her ambitions, and it was unlikely she’d risk confronting Katelyn prematurely. Even if Sophia attempted something, Katelyn was more than capable of holding her own.
? ? .
Their interactions had always been a chess match of wits. In this ongoing game, Vincent was confident of the outcome.
Alfy, caught off guard by Vincent’s trust in Katelyn, felt a mix of surprise and admiration. She struggled to put that feeling into words. It was a warmth that put her completely at ease. She longed to find someone who would genuinely trust her and see her for who she truly was.
Sadly, the thought of Jaxen weighed on Alfy’s mind, forcing a heavy sigh from her lips. At that moment, a wave of frustration washed over her. She knew she couldn’t afford to dwell on these thoughts for too long.
Alfy scooped another generous portion of ice cream, finding solace in the familiar comfort of her dessert.
Vincent, noticing her indulgence, advised, “Try to cut back on the ice cream.”
He then collected his phone and ascended to his study without further comment. Meanwhile…
Katelyn had already made her way to the small house at the back. As she stepped inside, she spotted Sophia on the balcony, completely absorbed in a book. Basking in the sunlight, she lounged with an air of effortless ease, completely at peace.
.
.
.