Chapter 764:

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Consequently, his dream was filled with provocative illusions. Julian observed the writhing pair from a distance. The figure kissing Katherine seemed to blur between himself and Colten—until the face turned, revealing the absence of the small mole beneath the eye.

Throughout the summer, Katherine was completely preoccupied with caring for Jillian. She worried about her rapid development, anxious that the altered certificate might raise suspicion. To her surprise, Jillian’s digestive troubles hindered her weight gain. Despite being around eight months old, she remained as slender as an infant only a few months younger.

Aside from being underweight, all other growth was remarkable. She could scoot, giggle, and had grown several teeth that gnawed at anything within reach, like a mischievous little rascal.

Katherine scheduled multiple hospital visits, but the assessments were identical: no medical concerns, only the possibility of a hereditary slender frame. With this professional opinion, Katherine felt temporarily soothed.

That afternoon, she went out with the caregiver and Jillian to meet Effie and Lila for skincare and massage therapy.

Jillian disliked confinement in the pushchair and clamored to be freed. The nanny brought her to a nearby recreational area, allowing her to explore the space.

In an instant of distraction, Jillian vanished. The nanny frantically searched, finally discovering her tucked behind an enormous stuffed animal, nestled in Julian’s embrace. Startled, she exclaimed, “Mr. Nash?”

Julian had been scouting commercial prospects nearby. While awaiting his drink, the crawling child had latched onto his trouser leg.

Though he wasn’t fond of her, she insisted on being picked up, so he unwillingly complied. Noticing the nanny, Julian asked, “Where’s her mom?”

The nanny explained, “Ms. Clarke is currently receiving a facial. Please return Jillian to me so you may relax.”

Julian didn’t look thrilled. Just as he extended the child, Jillian grew distressed and burst into wails.

𝘛h𝘦 𝗆o𝘴𝘵 рор𝗎𝗹𝖺𝘳 𝗇𝘰𝘷е𝗅ѕ 𝘰𝗇 𝗀𝖺𝗅𝗇ovеl𝘴.c𝗈m

Julian grimaced and halted. Instantly, Jillian quieted.

The nanny gave an uneasy chuckle. “She’s slightly wary of strangers.”

When Julian attempted again, Jillian shrieked once more. As he pulled her back, she immediately settled, having cried for ages without producing actual tears.

The nanny stood there, at a loss.

Julian muttered dryly, “Do I bear a strong resemblance to her mom? She’s not wary of me.”

The nanny was just as taken aback. In her memory, Jillian had always been timid with unfamiliar faces; whenever someone new appeared, she would either pout or burst into tears.

She distinctly recalled that Julian had barely spent time with the child. So how had they grown this close?

Even so, she had to continue her duties, gently coaxing Jillian while attempting to carry her. However, Jillian clutched Julian’s shirt tightly, refusing to be pried away.

Julian let out a quiet sigh. “I’m free today. I’ll hold her for a bit.”

The nanny paused, unsure. “Are you sure that’s alright? We don’t want to be a bother.”

Julian’s lips curled slightly. “Her mother and I go way back. It’s not a big deal.”

At that, realization bloomed on the nanny’s face. She clapped her hands, delighted. “Ah! That explains it. I remember now, you’re her uncle!”

An awkward hush crept in.

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