Norris finally said, “Go on, give him a pet.”
Owen stood by Black’s side, ready to grab the dog’s collar if he got too excited.
Claire walked up to Black, crouched down, and gently stroked his head.
Maybe it was because both Norris and Owen were always so nice to her, but Black didn’t act aggressive at all. In fact, he just closed his eyes, clearly enjoying the attention, and nudged his head into Claire’s palm.
“Alright, let’s go. Grandpa and the others are probably getting impatient,” Norris said after Claire had petted Black a few times.
Claire understood right away. She stood up, walked over to the outdoor sink, and turned on the tap to wash her hands.
It was a really convenient setup, perfect for washing up as soon as you walked in from outside.
She moved so quickly that Norris and Owen didn’t even have a chance to stop her.
Claire wasn’t the type to fuss or complain about the cold.
“Don’t use cold water. Go inside and use the hot one or your hands will freeze,” Norris said, sounding worried.
Claire grabbed a paper towel and dried her hands. “It’s fine, my hands warm up fast.”
She slipped her hands into her coat pockets.
Claire made sure to work out every day. She practiced qigong and kickboxing, and she’d always known how to take care of herself. Plus, with her background in medicine, she was probably healthier than most people.
Just then, a woman stepped outside. “Is this Claire?”
Padgett had gotten impatient and sent her out to check if the guests had arrived.
The woman looked warm and gentle, the kind of elegant, caring presence that put people at ease.
“Hello.” Claire guessed this was either Norris’s mom or Owen’s, so she greeted her politely.
Ophelia took one look at Claire and instantly liked her.
She was beautiful, lively, and had a certain resemblance to Melissa. Plus, she was so polite.
“I’m Norris’s mother. Just call me Ophelia.”
Ophelia came over and took Claire’s hand. “You’re absolutely gorgeous, you know that?”
Claire couldn’t quite dodge Ophelia’s enthusiasm.
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