Unspoken Hearts: My Neglected Mute Wife’s Escape

Chapter 46:

Jerome had chosen a restaurant that wasn’t exactly accessible to just anyone. Located close to Hayden’s studio, it boasted an ambiance of elegance and sophistication.

As the group disembarked from the car, a young man greeted them at the entrance of the restaurant. “Grandpa,” he called out as Jerome approached.

Stepping forward, Jerome introduced him. “This is my eldest grandson, Brent Hayes.”

Brent, who was Stella’s cousin and the oldest grandchild in the Hayes family, courteously shook hands and exchanged greetings with everyone, including Kallie.

Once everyone was comfortably seated and had exchanged a few pleasantries, Jerome, with a thoughtful expression, took a sip from his teacup and turned his attention to Kallie. “At the banquet the other day, my granddaughter might have slighted you. I want to apologize for that,” he said sincerely.

Kallie, caught off guard by the direction of Jerome’s apology, quickly stood up and gestured that she was fine and willing to let bygones be bygones. Plus, with the set of azure glazed porcelain as compensation, she felt she should have expressed her gratitude more deeply.

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“Your grandfather was a great help to me back in the day, and I regret not being able to support you as I should have,” Jerome continued, his tone laden with a touch of regret as he looked at Kallie, hinting at more on his mind.

Kallie sensed what might be coming next. Despite being married to Jake and the external perceptions of her life’s quality, she preferred to keep her marital issues private. She smiled warmly at Jerome, acknowledging his concern while maintaining her stance of not regretting her own choices.

Jerome’s mood lightened as he shifted the conversation. “It’s great to hear you’re thinking about starting your own business.” With a chuckle, he leaned in slightly, offering a tantalizing possibility. “I might even have a job opportunity for you. Interested?”

Kallie hesitated momentarily. Jake was against her working elsewhere. His displeasure was palpable when she started apprenticing at Hayden’s studio. Taking another job could make him even more upset. But did his approval of her decision really matter? She pondered this sadly.

Kallie had come to realize that his approval wouldn’t and shouldn’t alter her resolve. After years of marriage, she knew what to expect.

“Just hear me out before you say no,” Jerome hastily said, noticing the shift in Kallie’s demeanor and guessing she might be reluctant.

Kallie quickly met his gaze, gesturing for him to continue, showing that she was not reluctant.

“You know I’ve always had a passion for collecting antiques. While it’s a hobby, it’s also a significant business venture. Do you see where I’m going with this?” Jerome inquired.

Kallie nodded in understanding.

“I’m planning to establish a company focused on antiques. I’ll leave the main business strategy to Brent, but we need a professional consultant. Kallie, would you be interested in joining us?” Jerome proposed.

Kallie’s eyes widened, surprised that Jerome considered her for the role of advisor.

“Grandpa, I didn’t realize you held Mrs. Reeves in such high regard,” Brent commented before Kallie could reply.

Brent appeared slightly taken aback by Jerome’s suggestion. He then turned his attention to Kallie. Although subtle, Kallie detected a flicker of skepticism in his expression.

“I assumed you would choose Hayden as our consultant, but…” Brent left his sentence unfinished, yet the meaning was evident. He felt Kallie was not up to the task.

Kallie’s face betrayed no emotion. It was reasonable for others to question her abilities, particularly since she had only recently left her life as an obedient wife confined to the home.noveldrama

However, Hayden quickly came to her defense. “Kallie is actually quite skilled,” he asserted.

“But serving as an advisor involves more than just expertise in restoration,” Brent interjected. “Hayden, when you opened your studio, it wasn’t solely about your ability to restore antiques, but about your other skills as well, correct?”

Kallie grasped Brent’s point this time.

As the eldest grandson in the Hayes family, Brent held a respected position and was expected to eventually assume control over most of the family business. His focus couldn’t be limited to their antiques subsidiary alone. Consequently, the competence of the company’s advisor was paramount. If the advisor lacked the necessary skills, numerous complications could arise. Beyond restoration, the ability to identify genuine antiques was crucial. Otherwise, the company risked significant losses from investing in counterfeits.

“Why do you think Kallie is unfit for the role?” Jerome challenged, taking Kallie’s side in the debate.

Kallie managed a shy smile. Having been away from the business for years, she felt fortunate to still remember her antique restoration skills. She lacked any other notable skills.

Nevertheless, Jerome had immense faith in her. After speaking, he turned back to Brent. “If you wish to challenge Kallie, just say so. If she answers your question correctly, you owe her a toast later!”

“Alright,” Brent replied, perking up and fixing his gaze intently on Kallie.

Feeling the pressure, Kallie forced a smile at Brent, awaiting his questions.

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