Chapter 373 - Meet Sylvie Martin (4) (1/2)

Felix approached Sophia who was sitting on the dock. Afternoon sunlight was reflecting on the surface of water and it provided a magnificent sight. Sophia looked like a fire goddess who channeled her powers into the lake.

As Felix walked toward Sophia, he called her few times, but she didn't respond. He guessed that she is thinking about something, maybe enjoying the view.

Felix squatted next to Sophia and touched her cheek.

His touch startled her.

”We are ready for you.” He smiled and didn't notice her strange mood.

She saw his smile and could not believe that he can show her that expression after what happened inside the house. ”I'm not ready.” Sophia stood up while avoiding his gaze and put her shoes on. ”Please, get me my purse.”

Sophia walked toward the house while he followed next to her. He was trying to understand meaning of her words that she is not ready.

Sophia stopped few steps away from the patio where tea was set up. Sylvie was humming a tune while arranging bite size desserts on a display platter.

Sophia turned to Felix. ”My purse, please.” She bent to adjust strap on her shoe, and she didn't get up until he was holding her purse in front of her. She took the purse from his hands and their eyes met.

Felix froze and found it difficult to breathe. Her gaze reminded him of a distant Sophia he met as she exited elevator on the 37th floor in New York. That Sophia didn't want to tell him her name. It was a cold and distant gaze. The only difference was that now it had a hint of sadness. He watched her turn toward his mother, and he heard her say. ”Mrs. Martin, you have a lovely house. I wish that I can say how it was nice meeting you.” Her voice matched her gaze: cold, distant.

There was a sound of a car beeping from the street. Sophia walked toward it.

By the time Felix snapped out of it, Sophia was not in sight. He ran after her as fast as he could.

…

Sophia heard the car beeping and knew that is the cab she called earlier. She walked toward it hoping that she can keep herself together, that she will not break down. Just a little bit more. She can see the cab waiting for her. Just few more steps. She reached the car and pulled the door open.

”Sophia, wait!” She heard Felix call after her and hesitated.

Sophia closed her eyes, took a deep breath and started counting. She didn't count much when she felt his hand holding hers.