Chapter 17

Celine, who heard Calvin's voice, immediately turned her head. Instantly, her smile faded as soon as she saw who was with her son. She took a breath, trying to calm down, but the look in her eyes was cold, full of caution.

"Calvin, leave Uncle Nico alone," Celine said softly but firmly, stepping closer while holding her gaze on Nicolas.

However, Calvin looked at her with an innocent, hopeful face. "Mommy, can Uncle Nico play with us? I love playing with Uncle Nico!"

Nicolas was silent. His heart was pounding, not knowing what to do.

"Celine, I... I didn't mean to interrupt," Nicolas said, his voice almost a whisper.

Celine looked at Nicolas sharply, trying to control her feelings. "I thought, Nicolas, we had agreed to live our own lives. Isn't that right?"

Nicolas was silent, looking at the woman he once loved so much. "Celine, I just... I just wanted to have a little talk with you."

Celine sighed, then averted her eyes. "What is there to ta