Everyone stared at Felicity in shock.
When had she arrived? Had she come with Julian, or had she followed them?
No one on Winona's side knew.
But from the equally surprised looks on Julian and Tiana's faces, Winona deduced that Felicity had followed them here.
This little family of three was certainly interesting.
Winona watched them, her expression unreadable.
After a moment of shock, Tiana's face became a mask of confused pity, as if she were a frightened child who had lost the ability to think. A second later, that expression melted into a sickeningly sweet smile as she looked at Felicity. "Mommy! Mommy, I love you so much!"
Without hesitation, she ran to Felicity.
As she threw herself into Felicity's arms, Tiana's body trembled uncontrollably, and her teeth chattered, her fear evident in every limb. Yet, her face remained fixed in a sweet, lovely smile.
This stark contrast between her body and her expression was invisible to outsiders.
Even Julian didn't notice.
And Winona, who had always been kept at a distance by both of them, certainly couldn't see it.
Only Felicity, holding Tiana, could feel the girl's terror warring with her forced smile.
Felicity smiled serenely. "My Tiana is such a good girl. You're Mommy's pride and joy."
She kissed Tiana on the forehead.
Tiana shuddered, her small hands clenched into tight fists, her nails digging into her palms so hard she didn't even feel the pain.
All she could do was chant, "Mommy, Mommy."
With a composed expression, Julian looked at Winona. "What a coincidence. I suppose this counts as a reunion for you and your daughter. But rest assured, Felly and Tiana are as close as mother and daughter, like sisters. Felly loves Tiana even more than the baby she's carrying."
With that, he lifted Tiana into his arms and wrapped his other arm around Felicity.
The three of them looked like the perfect, happy family.
Winona's tone was just as steady. "Your family has always been close. You don't need to report that to me. Enjoy your meal. We'll be on our way."
She took Zane's hand, linked her arm with Yves Prescott's, and walked away without looking back.
That afternoon, Winona's house was filled with life. Some people were buying groceries, others were prepping vegetables, and some were playing with Zane. Zachary and his wife chatted with the old woman. Dr. McCarthy, who arrived later, found himself in a pleasant conversation with Mia. The living room buzzed with laughter and warmth, finally feeling like a real New Year's celebration.
With Yves as head chef and Winona as his assistant, they managed to prepare a feast of nearly thirty dishes that covered the large round table.
That New Year's evening was the most fulfilling and happiest Winona had experienced in a decade.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became
Why have updated stopped...
Please update...