Skip to content
Novel Catalog
Chapter 69
“Yes,” Eden replied, a soft smile playing on her lips as she looked up at Victor. “I have three children. Ricky, Gia, and Kenny. They’re everything to me.”
Victor’s eyes softened for a moment as he processed her words. He had never heard her speak about her children so openly before, and there was a sense of pride and warmth in her voice that made him pause.
“Three children?” he asked, his tone almost amused. “I didn’t realize you had such a… full house.”
Eden chuckled lightly. “Yes, it’s always lively. But it’s also the best part of my life.”
Victor couldn’t help but admire her strength. He had always known that Eden was capable, but hearing her talk about her children with such pride made him realize just how much responsibility she carried. Despite everything she had been through, she managed to raise her kids well, and her love for them was clear.
“I respect that,” he said quietly, almost to himself. “Your dedication to your children is admirable.”
Eden turned her head to look at him, surprised by the sincerity in his voice. Victor wasn’t someone who gave compliments easily, and she wasn’t used to receiving praise from him. But she appreciated the genuine sentiment.
“Thank you,” she said softly. “I just want what’s best for them.”
Victor nodded, his expression thoughtful. The two of them continued walking side by side, the silence between them comfortable for the first time that day. For some reason, being in her presence felt grounding for him, like the storm inside him was momentarily stilled.
As they walked, Eden thought about what Victor had said about the housing area. She knew the prices here were high, but her priority was to find a home that was convenient for her children’s schooling. She didn’t mind making sacrifices if it meant a better future for them.
Victor glanced over at Eden, his mind turning. There was something about her that intrigued him more than he had expected. She was strong, determined, and yet gentle in a way that seemed to calm the chaos inside him. She had a quiet resilience that was hard to ignore.
“Are you sure about the mortgage loan?” he asked, his voice filled with concern. “This area… it’s not an easy place to afford, even with a loan.”
Eden nodded, her expression resolute. “I know. But I’m willing to make it work. My children’s education and future are worth it.”
Victor stopped walking for a moment, his gaze fixed on her with a new intensity. He had a feeling that Eden was more than capable of handling whatever life threw her way. And yet, he couldn’t shake the feeling that she had a lot more on her plate than she let on.
“I can help you find something,” he said suddenly, his voice firm. “If you’re interested, I have connections. I could make sure you find a place that suits your needs and budget.”
Eden was taken aback for a moment. She hadn’t expected Victor to offer his help, especially not so openly. She knew he had the means to assist, but she wasn’t sure how to respond.
“That’s kind of you to offer, but I wouldn’t want to trouble you,” she said, her smile polite but cautious.
Victor smiled slightly, his eyes glimmering with something unspoken. “It’s no trouble at all. Consider it a favor from one neighbor to another.” His tone was casual, but there was an undercurrent of something deeper, as if he genuinely wanted to help.
Eden looked at him, feeling the weight of his offer. It was more than just helping with housing—it was the gesture of someone who saw her struggle and wanted to lighten her load, even if only in a small way.
“Alright,” she said, her voice softer now. “If you’re sure, I’ll take you up on it.”
Victor gave her a reassuring nod. “Good. Let’s find you the perfect place.”
And with that, the two of them continued walking through River City, an unspoken understanding growing between them.