Chapter 574
Chapter 574:
She appreciated his thoughtfulness in bringing her here to honor Hiram’s memory.
Everything had been handled with such ease and care, reflecting his unwavering commitment.
His gestures always seemed to strike a chord within her, reaching places in her heart she didn’t realize were so vulnerable.
“You’re welcome,” Cristian said, gently patting her head. “Hiram was like family to you, so I hold him in high regard.”
The drive along the rugged mountain road had been long and bumpy. After over an hour, the car finally reached Zhota, stopping in front of the largest hotel.
By nine that evening, the streets glimmered under the glow of streetlights. The Christmas holiday had drawn most people indoors, leaving the roads unusually quiet. Yet, the festive illuminations gave the town a cheerful charm, masking the stillness with warmth. Cristian secured two rooms side by side. After a simple dinner in the hotel’s cozy restaurant, he passed a room key to Fernanda.
“Get some rest early,” he said, his tone steady and caring.
Fernanda accepted the key with a soft nod.
Once in her room, she washed up, but sleep eluded her. The excitement of being back in Zhota kept her mind racing.
She moved toward the window, staring out at the familiar streets below. Memories of the past flooded her thoughts, and a smile crept onto her lips.
Picking up her phone, she dialed a number.
The call was answered almost immediately, and a boisterous voice came through the line. “Fernanda, Merry Christmas!”
The lively chatter in the background filtered through the line, prompting Fernanda to chuckle. “Sounds like a party, Clement. Let me guess—you’re drinking?”
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“Of course, it’s Christmas Day! What else is there to do? But honestly, without you around, the vibe’s just not the same. Remember when we used to go head-to-head?”
“In drinking contest? I lost last time. When I make it to Esaham, I’m taking you down for a rematch!” Clement Scott exclaimed.
Fernanda laughed heartily. “Why wait until then? I’m in Zhota right now. How about you come to me now and we settle this tonight?” As soon as she said that, Clement, who was on the other end, sobered up immediately.
Her words cut through the noise on the other end. The sounds faded, and the hiccupping stopped. “Wait—what did you just say? You’re in Zhota?”
“That’s right. I’m staying at the Golden Hotel. Meet me in the lobby if you’re up for it.”
“Ten minutes, no, five minutes, just five minutes. Don’t move a muscle, Fernanda. I’m on my way!” With that, the line went dead abruptly.
Sliding her room card into her pocket, Fernanda made her way downstairs to the lobby.
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