The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became novel Chapter 388

"You've just gotten over a fever, you're still weak," Yves said gently. "When you're feeling better tomorrow, I'll take you to see her in secret."

Winona looked at him, surprised. "What?"

"A friend of mine owns the villa directly across from Nicholson Manor. We can see her from there with binoculars. One look, and you'll be able to rest easy," he explained.

He was a man of his word. The next day, Yves drove Winona to his friend's villa. From a discreet corner on the back terrace, equipped with a pair of binoculars, they had a clear view of Julian's house.

It was early evening. Winona had been watching for less than half an hour when she saw them: Julian, Felicity, and Tiana, returning home.

Felicity held Tiana's hand affectionately. Tiana skipped along beside her, her small hand nestled in Felicity's. Julian followed, carrying Tiana's art supplies. It looked like they had taken her out for a painting session.

Seeing them together like this, it was clear that Julian and Felicity were taking good care of Tiana. A sense of relief washed over Winona.

"Tiana has always adored Felicity. They seem happy as a family of three," Winona said, feeling a wave of fatigue from her recent illness. "Let's go, Yves."

Yves wrapped an arm around her, and they left the villa.

Meanwhile, back at the Nicholson residence, Felicity led Tiana into the living room. Like a magician, Tiana suddenly produced a gift box from behind her back and presented it to Felicity. "Ta-da! Mommy, open it and see if you like it!"

Felicity beamed. "What's this?"

Julian smiled. "It's New Year's, and Tiana insisted on getting you a present. She even had me help her pick it out today. It's the first gift she's ever given her mother. I hope you like it."

Julian explained, "I told Tiana about the cruise tickets the tourism bureau sent us. She's been so excited. She was hoping you'd take her shopping for a new outfit tomorrow."

Felicity had been recognized as one of the city's outstanding young professionals this year for her innovative senior living project, which had received widespread praise. As a token of recognition, the city's tourism bureau had sent Julian and Felicity ten exclusive tickets for a New Year's river cruise. The guest list was comprised of the city's elite; tickets were not for sale and couldn't be bought, no matter the price. Receiving ten was a significant honor.

Julian had done the math: his older sister was busy with Victor, and his grandparents rarely went out. That left his parents, himself, Tiana, and the six members of the Shepherd family—a perfect ten.

Felicity looked slightly uncomfortable. "Could Tiana maybe… sit this one out? My brother has started seeing a socialite from Port City, and he wants to bring her on the cruise."

Julian and Tiana stared at her, stunned.