Chapter 1062

Joanna had just returned from her trip abroad, and it had been some time since she met Adrian. He smiled and said, “It’s been a long time, Jojo. Why do you look different?” Joanna smoothened her hair and rolled her eyes. “Don’t you recognize me anymore just because I got a new hairstyle? Wavy hair is all the rage at the moment. What do you think? Do you like my new hairstyle?” “You look kind of like a golden retriever,” replied Adrian. Joanna rolled her eyes at him a few times. Sarah and Nadine walked over. The former called out in a mischievous manner, “Godpa!” Nadine covered her mouth and giggled. Adrian glared at Sarah and said, “You’ve gained some weight.” “I’m well-fed!” said Sarah with her arms crossed. Adrian felt joy rise from the depths of his heart as he witnessed the scene before his eyes. Thinking about it, he figured that what they say about “being alive is hope” was true. Chuck and Vivian walked over as well. Chuck said, “Buddy, we saw everything on the news. Congratulations on your heroic return.” Vivian said smilingly, “As my ex-student, you’ve surpassed all expectations. You’re amazing!” Adrian smiled in reply. More and more people gathered around him. Teenage girls ran over with fresh flowers in their hands and gifted them to Adrian. “War Legate sir, this is for you!” “Congratulations on your heroic return, Legate!” A group of young ladies surrounded Adrian as he smiled. His smile seemed shaky. He stretched out his hand to pat the young ladies’ heads and said, “Thank you for your flowers. Be good and stay in school.” Gloria walked over and received the flowers one by one. Samantha said, “Adrian, Swallowston’s Battle Warrior Department has prepared a celebration feast for you. They just called and asked for you to attend.” Adrian immediately declined and said, “Please tell them that there’s nothing worth celebrating about this operation. Call off the feast. We’ll eat at home.” Samantha nodded. “Let’s go home then. Mother has prepared a huge spread. We’ll have a good meal together today,” she said smilingly. Adrian did not respond, immersed in the joy Nova brought him. Then, he walked toward Swallowston and soon arrived back at One Jewel Road. Sarah, Nadine, Chuck, Vivian, and the others come too. Samantha had invited them to join the meal today and have some drinks. Rue had been preparing the food since the morning. She served the scrumptious meal that filled the table as soon as Adrian arrived home. The group sat in the dining room, and the overflowing joy spread far and wide. Adrian indulged in a few drinks today, using the alcohol to forget about Daniel’s passing. The people toasted, socialized, and enjoyed each other’s company around the table. The lunch ended at dusk. Everyone left after the meal ended. Adrian sat in the living room with his daughter, who had yet to speak, in his arms. He gazed at her quietly. Samantha and Gloria had a private conversation in the room. As for their topic of conversation, Adrian did not know what it was. Late at night, Adrian went up to the viewing deck and looked out to the bustling scene of Swallowston under the night sky. His mood was tainted with a profound sense of loneliness, mixed with grief and deep emotions.