After leaving the principal’s office, N went to find Lilith and informed her that Mason would attending school. Only then did she leave the building.


    +25


    tinue


    Once N arrived at theb, Caroline hurried over and whispered, “N, my sister agreed to meet with you. Here’s the time and the restaurant address for tonight. She’s really busy, so you must be on time. She has a flight to catch at 10:00 p.m.”


    N’s eyes lit up with surprise, and <b>she </b>excitedly grabbed Caroline’s hand. “Thank you so much, Caroline! I’ll treat you to dinner on Saturday.”


    “That’s not important. What matters most is Buddy’s situation. But honestly, don’t get your hopes up too high. Bailey probably won’t take the case,” Caroline said.


    “Yeah, but I have to try,” N replied. For Mason, even knowing the chances were slim wouldn’t make her


    give up


    “Okay, good luck,” Caroline wished her.


    The day flew by, and as soon as work ended, N rushed to the restaurant. She arrived a few minutes early, and Bailey was punctual.


    As soon as they sat <b>down</b>, Bailey spoke up before N could say anything. “Ms. Kinsey, Caroline briefly exined your situation. I’m afraid I can’t take this case. I’m sorry.”


    N hadn’t expected Bailey to get straight to the point. Her gaze dimmed. “Ms. Lovell, if you don’t intend to take the case, why did you agree to meet me?”


    “My sister insisted that I meet you. While I can’t take the case, I can rmend anotherwyer who has a simr level of expertise,” <b>Bailey </b>offered.


    N paused, looking intently at Bailey. “But I only trust you. If there’s anywyer who could win against Gerrard, I believe it’s you.”


    A flicker of emotion crossed Bailey’s face. She seemed touched but quickly shook her head firmly. “I’m sorry. I really can’t take this case.”


    After ncing at the time, she stood up. “I need to catch a flight. Here’s my business card. If you need help finding anotherwyer, feel free to reach out.”


    She left, but just a few steps away, N called after her, “Ms. Lovell, is your refusal to take cases rted to Gerrard because you’re still hung up on that rtionship?” Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Bailey paused briefly but said nothing as she hurried out.


    N didn’t chase after her. She knew it would be pointless. Since Bailey wouldn’t take the case, she would have to find anotherwyer.


    12


    Back home, Mason was sitting on the sofa watching TV, while Pauline was busy in the kitchen.


    Everything seemed perfectly normal, but N wondered how long this


    peaceful life couldst.


    When Mason saw her, he jumped up and ran over, hugging her legs. “Mommy, where did you go?”


    N forced a smile and patted his head. “I had to work a bit longer.”


    Mason frowned. “Mommy, if you’re not happy, you don’t have to smile.”


    N’s smile froze, then slowly faded. If even Mason could see that she was upset, her expression must <b>have </b>been pretty bad.


    She squatted down to meet his gaze. “Buddy, I’m fine. I’m just a bit tired from work.”


    Mason shook his head. “You’re lying. You’re sad because of that bad man. Before, you never looked this upset, no matter how tired you were.”