The Officer's Runaway Wife and Secret Son novel Chapter 459

He had been taking his medication and going to bed on time these past few days to regulate his sleep and give his lungs a better rest.

But tonight, as he closed his eyes, his mind was filled with plans for tomorrow.

What music should he play in the car? He wondered if the flower shop near the theater still had Clara's favorite flowers.

All the trivial little things that were part of a normal relationship, things he once scorned as a waste of time.

Now, he went over these details in his head again and again, terrified of making a single mistake.

He was discovering that focusing your mind on another person, figuring out how to make them happy, was an incredibly motivating feeling.

On Christmas Eve, the first thing Felix did upon waking was check his red stocking. When he found it still empty, his little mouth drooped.

"Mommy, Santa didn't come yesterday."

Clara smiled. "That's because tonight is Christmas Eve. Santa is still on his way. He'll put your presents in your stocking tonight."

Rhys came out carrying a plate and ruffled Felix's hair. "Go wash your face and brush your teeth. It's time for breakfast."

Though a bit disappointed, Felix obediently ran to the bathroom.

After breakfast, Clara went back to her room to pick out an outfit.

She stood before the full-length mirror, holding two different items, comparing them left and right.

She, who would normally throw a down jacket over her pajamas to go out, hadn't cared this much about her appearance in a very long time.

Felix poked his head in. "Mommy, which outfit are you wearing to Godmommy's house?"

Clara frowned, holding the two garments in front of her. "Is this white one good? Or the blue one?"

Felix tilted his head, unable to decide either. He turned and shouted toward the living room, "Daddy! Come here!"

"What's wrong?" Rhys's footsteps approached quickly.

"Mommy wants to know which outfit looks better. Come help her choose," Felix said, pulling Rhys to the doorway.

Clara froze for a second, then looked at the man in the doorway.

Rhys helped carry the gift boxes and the things they'd prepared for Felix, walking them upstairs.

When the elevator doors opened, Daniel's front door was already ajar.

"You're finally here!" Emily greeted them, stooping down to pinch Felix's cheek. "Felix, did you miss me?"

"Yes, I missed you!" Felix said sweetly. After changing his shoes, he ran into the living room. "Is Daddy Simon here?"

Clara walked in and changed her shoes as well.

Rhys stood outside the door, not entering. He handed the bags to Emily. "Brought you a few things. I've dropped them off, so I'll be heading back now."

He spoke decisively and turned to press the elevator button.

"Hey, wait a minute." Emily grabbed his arm and wouldn't let go. "Don't be in such a hurry to leave."

Rhys paused and looked back at her. "Is there something else?"

"Why are you being so stubborn?" Emily shot him a glare. "I bought a turkey that's way too big, and Daniel bought a ton of side dishes. There's no way we can finish all this food. You'll just be alone if you go back, so you might as well stay and eat with us."