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Novel Catalog
Chapter 70
Victor could see the faint sadness in Eden’s eyes as she looked at the villas. He could tell she admired them but also knew it was out of her reach. There was something about her—her quiet determination mixed with the vulnerability she barely showed—that intrigued him more than he was willing to admit.
“Beautiful, indeed,” he murmured, his gaze following hers. But his mind was already at work, thinking of ways he could help her. He didn’t want to see her settle for something less just because of finances.
“Miss Bleu,” he began, his tone softer now, “If you’re serious about this area, I might be able to help you find something more affordable, yet still comfortable. I know the market here, and I have connections.”
Eden’s eyes flickered with surprise. She had been reluctant to ask for help, but hearing him offer so genuinely made her pause. Victor Alwynn was a powerful man, and it wasn’t the first time he had offered his assistance. Still, there was something different about the way he spoke this time—something more personal, almost like he understood what it meant to struggle.
She hesitated for a moment before responding, “I appreciate the offer, Mr. Alwynn, but I’m trying to handle things on my own. I don’t want to take advantage of your kindness.”
Victor shook his head, his expression serious. “It’s not about kindness. It’s about making sure you and your children are well taken care of. You’ve been through enough, Miss Bleu. Don’t let something like this hold you back.”
Eden didn’t know how to respond. The sincerity in his voice made her feel seen in a way she hadn’t expected. But she also didn’t want to feel indebted to him, especially when her own pride was at stake.
“I understand your concerns,” Victor added, noticing her reluctance. “But think about the future, Eden. You’re raising your children alone, and you deserve a place that gives them stability. That’s something worth investing in.”
The use of her name—it felt different coming from him. It was no longer just a formality; it felt personal, and somehow, it made her heart flutter slightly. She swallowed her emotions, trying to keep her composure.
“Thank you,” she said softly, “But I’ll still try to find a way on my own.”
Victor studied her for a moment, as if weighing something in his mind. His usual confident demeanor seemed to soften, his eyes lingering on her a bit longer than necessary. He wasn’t used to feeling this way, to caring so much about someone else’s struggles.
“You’re a strong woman, Eden,” he said quietly. “I admire that. But don’t be afraid to lean on others when you need to.”
Eden smiled at him, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. “I’ll keep that in mind, Mr. Alwynn.”
As they continued walking, a quiet understanding settled between them. Victor may have offered his help, but it was clear that Eden valued her independence. Still, something in his chest tightened at the thought of her trying to do everything alone.
They reached a quieter part of the city, the noise of the busy streets fading as they strolled through a more serene neighborhood. Eden’s thoughts wandered back to her children—her three precious little ones. They were the reason she pushed herself so hard, the reason she wouldn’t stop until she found a place for them to call home.
Victor’s voice broke through her thoughts. “Eden, you mentioned earlier that Ricky is starting school soon… Do you have any plans for his future education?”
Eden’s smile brightened as she spoke about her children. “Yes, Ricky is really excited about school. He’s a smart boy, always asking questions and eager to learn. I’m hoping to enroll him in the best schools here, just like I did for the others.”
Victor was struck by her devotion. “You’re doing a great job,” he said quietly, his voice filled with admiration. “They’re lucky to have you.”
Eden was taken aback by his words, unsure how to respond. No one had ever acknowledged her struggles so genuinely, and the fact that Victor—someone who had everything—could recognize her efforts meant more than she cared to admit.
“Thank you,” she said softly, her voice warm. “That means a lot to me.”
They continued their walk in silence for a while, both caught up in their own thoughts. For Victor, this moment was different—he wasn’t just helping a colleague or a stranger. He was starting to care about Eden in ways he hadn’t expected. Something inside him stirred, a feeling that was both foreign and familiar.
As they walked, he made a silent vow to himself: he would make sure Eden and her children were taken care of, no matter what it took. He didn’t know why, but something told him that protecting her was the right thing to do.