Chapter 18

Callie pretended not to hear Ethan. Holding the doll, she said to Faith, "Mom, let's go." "I'll drive you home," Ethan offered. Faith rejected him again, "It's fine. We'll call a cab." He did not insist and watched as they left. … The next morning, Ethan showed up at the hotel lobby with a fresh bouquet and some snacks, waiting for Faith and Callie. "Morning! Are you free today? Let's have breakfast." "I'm sorry. I'm busy today," Faith turned down Ethan's suggestion and dragged Callie along. As usual, Ethan did not force Faith to bend to his will. He watched the mother and daughter exit the hotel. He knew very well that Faith wouldn't forgive him easily, but he did not feel discouraged; he wasn't about to give up. Instead, he showed up daily at the hotel to wait for Faith and Callie. Every time, he brought along various gifts and goodies, firmly believing that there must be something they liked. Faith would turn down his gesture each time, but Callie was starting to be swaye