NovelEnglishChapter 365: Allisons mind briefly wandered to the meal Kellan had prepared the day before.
For sreason, men who cooked always seemed incredibly appealingespecially when they worked with such focus.
When Allison and Kellan exchanged greetings, it was brief, both acting as though nothing had transpired between them.
They avoided each others gaze, behaving like nothing more than friends.
After a moment, Allison brought Lorna over.
Lorna, sweetheart, theres plenty of clay here for you to play with today.
Come, letshow you, she said softly.
Emm... Okay, Lorna responded in her small, timid voice.
Her eyes, however, were shining with curiosity.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtLorna had only recently begun speaking and still stuttered on occasion.
Allison didnt push her.
She simply let the girl take her time, encouraging her to play happily in the courtyard.
Little by little, Lorna was recovering.
Not only could she speak now, but she even smiled occasionally.
It was a quiet victory.
Soon, Lorna was deeply engrossed in her clay work, though she seemed frustrated with her progress.
Shed regressed a little, constantly trying to fix each piece she molded.
Sthings arent meant to be perfect, Allison advised softly, pulling up a stool beside her.
If you immerse yourself too much, youll create something technically beautiful, but it might lack soul.
Its okay to take your tand settle into it.
Lorna blinked, absorbing Allisons words.
Okay.
Thank you... thank you, Allison.
Youre welcome, Allison said with a gentle smile.
Under her guidance, Lorna gradually regained her rhythm.
A uniquely shaped vase began to take form, and Lornas eyes lit up with surprise and pride.
Her bright, genuine smile made Allisons heart warm in return.
Youre amazing.
The peaceful scene, however, was interrupted by an unexpected voice from the courtyard gate.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmNo wonder my niece is recovering so quickly, a smooth voice called out.
Shes got such a good teacher.
Allison turned to see Hoyt, his disarming smile in place as he pushed the door open.
He stepped inside with an air of casual confidence.
It seems Ms.
Clarke has quite the vision and talent, he continued, his gaze flicking over Allison.
No wonder even my brother is so taken with you, ever willingly giving you the heirloom necklace. The harmonious atmosphere in the courtyard was abruptly shattered.
Hoyt strode in briskly, his gaze sweeping across the yard with obvious disdain.
Hey, folks, he greeted, his tone forced and overly familiar.
If Melany hadnt given him a heads-up, Hoyt wouldnt have m guessed that Kellan actually enjoyed visiting such a rural place.
Yet, after the greeting, he quickly noticed that nearly everyone in the courtyard ignored him. Kellan was casually watching Allison and Lorna, barely acknowledging Hoyts presence.
The silence hung heavily in the air, amplifying the awkwardness.
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