Kathleen sighed ruefully. “I lost my memories.”
She had forgotten about the people and memories from her past, so Ryder’s words puzzled her.
He gave a thoughtful smile. “Being constrained by memories isn't a good thing. People change; you may dislike something you liked when you were younger, right?”
She returned his smile. “That makes sense, but sometimes changes can be difficult.”
“Unless you have recovered your memories.” His smile turned sly.
“Are you trying to probe if my memories have returned?” Kathleen chuckled.
He froze.
“Save your time. I don't remember anything yet.” She gave a wan smile.
“Do you think this is a God-given opportunity to reincarnate? You have a clean slate and a new beginning, so you're not bound by past emotions.”
She barked a laugh, and he closed his hand over hers. “I like you. Do you feel the same for me?”
She was going to answer him when she heard Desiree's voice from behind her.
“Mommy!” The little girl's voice shook when she saw Kathleen.
Kathleen tugged her hand away from Ryder's and got out of the car. Desiree followed suit and scampered to her.
“Mommy, you're so beautiful.” Her eyes filled with awe and
admiration. It's no wonder that everyone likes Mommy!
Samuel's eyes drank in Kathleen's beauty, and his throat bobbed on a swallow.
“Why are you guys here?” Kathleen played innocent.
“Daddy brought us here.” Desiree glanced back at the electric tourist vehicle.
Kathleen followed her gaze and looked away as soon as she met Samuel's dark eyes.
Samuel followed Ryder's lead and got out of the car. She glanced at the former's wrist and felt he was being careless with his injury, despite the fact that he was wearing protective gear.
“Mommy, please talk to Daddy. His hand is injured, yet he isn't resting properly,” Desiree tattled.
Kathleen held her tiny hand. “I don't think I'll be able to persuade him otherwise.” If I could, he wouldn't be here now.
Samuel cleared his throat. “Well, you didn't try.”
She lifted her gaze and smiled, but the smile never quite reached her eyes. “Didn't I tell you to rest before leaving the house today?”
Samuel remained silent.
Ryder took a step forward. “Nice to meet you, Mr. Macari.”
The cold look returned to Samuel's eyes. “Pleasure's mine, Mr. Xenakis.”
“You must be Desi. I'm Ryder Xenakis.” He stretched his hand toward Desiree.
She looked up at him with twinkling eyes. “You're very handsome, Mr.
Xenakis.”
He laughed. “And you're very adorable.”
Samuel snorted under his breath.
She blinked. “Mr. Xenakis, are you Mommy's boyfriend?”
Ryder hesitated before chuckling. “Not yet.”
Desiree furtively sighed in relief and yanked on his arm. “I'm hungry, Mr. Xenakis.”
“Okay, I'll get you something to eat.” He bent down to scoop her in his arms.
She was a warm and soft bundle, provoking his fatherly instincts and overriding his typical indifference toward kids.
His life would be more fulfilling if he could have such a cute, charming daughter.
Kathleen approached them as Ryder headed toward his car carrying Desiree. “Let me take her while you drive.”
“All right.” He flashed her a smile.
Kathleen was about to carry Desiree from him when a suit jacket landed on her lap.
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