"You're a Tanner now, and your grades reflect on the entire Tanner family, sweetheart. If your grades slip, it's not just you who looks bad, but the whole family! We can't have that, can we? Sweet Madeline, listen to me, okay? Just stay in and hit the books, keep me company, will you?" Imogen pleaded, holding her daughter's hand tightly, refusing to let her leave.
Lately, Imogen felt uneasy, her anxiety levels through the roof every time Madeline mentioned going out. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something big was about to happen.
But Madeline firmly pulled away. "Don't worry, Mom, I'm just heading out to grab some books. I'll be back before you know it. If it makes you feel better, I'll FaceTime you, okay?"
The more Madeline resisted, the more Imogen was convinced her daughter was hiding something. But what could she do, especially now, heavily pregnant?
Soon, Regina would come downstairs, and they'd have to share a meal, a task that became increasingly difficult for Imogen whenever Regina was at the table. The feeling, it seemed, was mutual.
Yet, for the sake of gathering more information, she continued to dine with the family.
Regina, however, never compromised on treating herself well, especially since Nolan seemed to know exactly what she was up to. Every time she returned from the Tanner household, Nolan would whisk her off in his car, exploring the city's culinary delights. From fancy hotels to hole-in-the-wall diners, Nolan knew them all.
With each outing, Regina found herself understanding and, paradoxically, growing more attached to him.
And deep down, Regina couldn't help but wonder: Did patient, kind Nolan not harbor any feelings for her?
She knew the answer but was too afraid to get closer.
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