Chapter 655

Livia's mind was a whirlwind of confusion, and she had no clue what to do next.

Mustering all her courage, she dialed Finley's number. His response was as cold and cruel as she feared.

It hit Livia hard—Finley wouldn't accept the baby, or her.

"Josie, I want to have this baby," Livia's voice was barely above a whisper.

"Then let's do it," Josie replied, her tone full of warmth. "This baby will be surrounded by so much love. Who needs a dad when you've got a whole village, right?"

A faint smile crept across Livia's face as she squeezed Josie's hand. "Josie, thank you."

"Come on, silly. No need to thank me. I'm gonna be the godmother, and you bet Percy and Luke are lining up to be godfathers. Imagine that—two dads and two moms showering this kid with love. It's gonna be amazing!"

Gradually, Livia's mind started to calm, and she could picture the future Josie was painting.

Maybe, just maybe, this wasn't such a bad thing after all.

With that thought, her eyes sparkled with newfound joy. "Josie, thanks for giving me the courage."

"Don't mention it. Hey, are you hungry? Pregnant women need their nutrients. Let's go find something delicious to eat."

Feeling lighter, Livia strolled out with Josie.

Josie handed her a pair of sunglasses from her bag. "Livia, put these on and let's take on the world."

The sunglasses hid her tear-stained eyes, giving her a shield from prying looks.

Josie's thoughtfulness gave Livia an extra boost of confidence.

Together, they walked ahead, unafraid of what lay ahead.

But halfway there, they ran into Finley.

Holding some papers, Finley looked surprised to see Josie and Livia. He noticed that Livia had lost weight.

Holding Livia's hand, Josie whispered, "How about some pasta? You love pasta. And let's get some fried chicken too. Sound good?"

"Sounds perfect," Livia replied, moving forward with Josie.

They walked past Finley without a second glance, ignoring the man who had caused so much pain.

Finley turned around, his gaze lingering on Livia's slender figure, feeling a pang of something he couldn't quite name.

But he didn't follow them. Instead, he walked away.

Reid came home looking rugged and a bit worn out.

Hattie gave him a once-over and wrinkled her nose. "Carter, can't you clean yourself up a bit? Don't you care about embarrassing your Sister?"

Reid just chuckled. "Mom, I'm heading to shower now. Been busy testing our competition robot, it's been crazy."

"Go shower, you're a greasy mess."

"Mom, you really know how to make a guy feel loved. I'm off to shower."

"Don't delay, your sister will be home soon. Don't want you stinking up the place. Carter, doesn't your company have showers?"

"Mom, I did shower, just didn't shave. And the all-nighters are taking their toll."

"Alright, alright, off you go."

Before he could leave, Reid added,

"Mom, I have a competition

tomorro

row. Bring sis along to chee

forme: Witness my moment of glory as I take first place. What do you say?"

"Carter, that confident, huh? What if you come in second?"

Reid smiled wryly. "Mom, always the optimist. Don't worry, I'll take first place Just book a restaurant for my victory celebration Contest