Chapter 1659
That day, Ben didn't go to the office. Instead, he urged Jamie, "It's about time. Let's go."
Jamie, carrying Charlie, hurried out. "Coming, coming."
Seeing her glowing appearance, Ben smiled and teased, "You're looking more beautiful every day."
Jamie rolled her eyes playfully. "I didn't know you could be so smooth-talking."
Ben chuckled. "Is telling the truth considered smooth-talking? Or are you just afraid to face how stunning you really are?"
Jamie sighed, exasperated but amused. "Alright, enough. Let's get going."
Ben started heading to the car but paused, giving himself a once-over. Shaking his head, he said, "No, this outfit doesn't match yours. We don't look like a couple."
"You're seriously going to change?" Jamie raised an eyebrow.
"Of course. Help me pick something," he said with a grin.
Unable to argue with him, Jamie followed him back upstairs. After rummaging through his wardrobe, they chose an outfit that complemented hers perfectly. Satisfied, Ben admired himself in the mirror. "Now this looks like a real family." The three of them headed downstairs, got into the car, and drove off.
They didn't notice Mrs. Lucas watching them from the window, a wistful look on her face. The sight of the harmonious family brought a twinge of longing to her expression.
Once they were gone, Mrs. Lucas stepped out and asked the driver, "Where are they headed?"
"To the photo studio," the driver replied.
"Then take me to the studio too," she said, her curiosity piqued. Guessing they were going to take family photos, she couldn't help but feel a bit expectant.
*
By the time Mrs. Lucas arrived at the studio that afternoon, the photoshoot was already underway.
The large studio offered a variety of backdrops, and as VIP clients with a prior reservation, Ben, Jamie, and Charlie were greeted warmly by the photographer. "This way, please! This setting is perfect for family portraits."
The family followed, and the session began.
"Alright, let's start with the three of you sitting together for a shot," the photographer instructed enthusiastically.
When Mrs. Lucas arrived, she stood outside, watching through the large glass windows. Inside, she saw the three of them laughing and enjoying the photoshoot, their bond evident in every frame. They looked soo peaceful, so complete.
A pang of regret filled her chest. "If only I had stepped in earlier..." she silently remarked.
She thought of all the years that had passed. Had she been more open, this scene might have been a part of her life long ago. But the unresolved conflicts from the past loomed large, making her hesitant to approach. The photographer's voice cut through her thoughts. "Alright, now both parents hold the child and lean in closer."
As Jamie adjusted her position, she glanced up and caught sight of Mrs. Lucas standing outside, her gaze filled with longing.
Jamie froze for a moment before turning to Ben. "Your mom's here."
Ben followed her gaze, his expression unreadable.
Without hesitation, Jamie got up and walked to the door. Opening it, she said warmly, "Mom, why don't you join us? It's a family portrait, after all."
Mrs. Lucas blinked in surprise, a hint of tears in her eyes. "Really? Are you sure?"
"Of course," Jamie said with a bright smile. "You're Charlie's grandmother. A family photo wouldn't be complete without you."
A flicker of joy crossed Mrs. Lucas's face as she stepped inside quickly, visibly touched.
Jamie took her arm and led her to the center of the setup. Ben and Jamie sat on either side of her, while Charlie nestled happily in her lap. In that moment, Mrs. Lucas felt an overwhelming sense of happiness and belonging.
"Thank you, Jamie," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
Jamie only smiled in return, saying nothing.
The wounds from the past couldn't be healed overnight, but for the sake of their family, Jamie knew that fostering peace was worth it. For now, this harmony was enough.