Chapter 4

Saturday morning, I watched the little one quietly building blocks, a smile playing on my lips.

But then I thought of the afternoon's reunion, and couldn't help but sigh.

Why a class reunion and not a parent-teacher conference?

Noticing my change in mood, Lily looked up, her small face worried, "Daddy, are you sad?"

I ruffled her chubby little cheek and said, "Daddy has to go to a get-together this afternoon. Can Lily play by herself for a little while at home?"

After these past few days, Lily had grown much closer to me.

"Can Lily come with Daddy then? Lily will be very good and listen," she asked, blinking her big eyes.

Thinking that Mason might be at the reunion, I instinctively wanted to refuse.

Her bright eyes instantly dimmed. "Okay, Lily will wait for Daddy at home."

Crap, a strong wave of guilt washed over me.

It wouldn't hurt to bring Lily, right? I'd keep a close eye on her anyway. Leaving her alone at home would make me just like her workaholic mom, wouldn't it?

"Of course you can. Lily can come with Daddy, okay?"

"Yay!" Her eyes immediately lit up again, and I breathed a sigh of relief.

But why did I feel like this little one had me completely wrapped around her finger?

The reunion was in a private room at a club. By the time we arrived, most people were already there.

"Well, well, if it isn't our famous designer, Leo! What took you so long? We were waiting for you!"

I was spotted by an eagle-eyed classmate as soon as I walked in.

My plan to quietly huddle in a corner was officially ruined.

I smiled and greeted them, then, seeing Chloe waving frantically at me, I took Lily's hand and walked over.

At this, everyone's gaze shifted to us, and the chatter died down.

"Leo, who is this...?" Someone asked curiously.

I sat down, pulling Lily onto my lap, and frowned at the drinks piled on the table.

"My daughter," I said frankly, then looked at the server nearby, asking gently, "Excuse me, do you have any juice or milk suitable for a child?"

"Yes, sir, I'll bring it right away."

After settling Lily, I turned to Chloe. "Wipe that hungry wolf look off your face. You're scaring my daughter."

Chloe chuckled. "Your daughter is so cute! Does she need a godmother?" She had a mischievous look.

"Get lost," I scoffed, giving her a disgusted look.

We ate and chatted.

A moment later, a strong scent of cologne wafted over.

The next second, Lily let out a tiny sneeze.

At the same time, a familiar voice cut in: "Leo, I hear you got married recently. To someone with a kid? Why would you do that? You didn't go and become a..."

He didn't finish the sentence, but everyone understood what he was implying.

"Mason! What are you being such a jerk for?!" Chloe's temper flared instantly, and she glared at him.

Mason raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "Oh, my bad. Did I hit a nerve?"

I shifted Lily away from him, covering her little nose. My voice was icy. "Mason, could you please back off? Can't you see my daughter is practically choking on your cologne?"

"You!" His face instantly turned ugly.

Then, he seemed to think of something, pointing at Lily in my arms.

"So this is your second wife's kid, huh?" He forced a fake smile, addressing Lily. "Little girl, do you really think he likes you? Wait until he has his own kids, then he'll show his true colors and won't want you anymore!"

His expression was feigned sympathy, but the malice was unmistakable.

Lily buried her face in my chest. I thought she was scared, and my anger flared. I scoffed, "Mason! Didn't you say you were coming with your new girlfriend? Where is she? Don't tell me... you got dumped again?"

"Then again, for such a 'sensitive' guy, why can't you ever hold onto anyone?"

Seeing his face turn thunderous, I knew I'd hit the mark. I instantly felt a surge of satisfaction.

I waved at Chloe, then picked up Lily and stood. "That's enough of this reunion for today. I have to go."

This reunion was completely ruined. I should probably avoid these in the future.

As I carried Lily, I didn't notice the little one glance coldly over my shoulder at Mason, who stood frozen, before turning her gaze thoughtfully towards my... stomach.