Chapter 36: Chapter 36



Joelle understood Leah’s point, but she wasn’t one to revel in conflict or competition. Since childhood, she had embraced what came her way and let go of what didn’t. If something required a constant struggle to attain, it probably wasn’t worth the effort to begin with.

Adrian was the sole exception. For him, she had sacrificed her career, her pride, and devoted three years to being a full-time housewife. Despite her best efforts to be the ideal, dutiful wife, it all seemed for naught. She had already fought for him and exhausted herself in the process.

That night, Joelle settled Leah into the guest room. The next morning, after enjoying the breakfast Leah prepared, Joelle headed to Olive Villas. Josiah, a diligent student, had made impressive progress in just a month, mastering the beginner’s piece.

Joelle’s standing in the Walters family had significantly improved. During a break, Josiah’s mother brought her juice and snacks. “Joelle, thank you so much for looking after Josiah. He’s a wonderful boy, though quite introverted. It’s rare to find someone with the patience to truly understand him.”

Mrs. Walters, still youthful but with early streaks of gray in her thick, curly hair, was visibly emotional. Her voice quivered as she spoke, and she struggled to hold back tears. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to get so emotional.” “It’s perfectly alright,” Joelle reassured her gently.

Nearby, Josiah, dressed in black, was crouched on the floor, feeding his kitten from a handful of cat food. His many pets were well cared for, and the white cat among them had the most stunning fur Joelle had ever seen. “The first time I met Josiah, I thought, how bad could a boy who loves animals be? If he’s gentle with animals, surely he can be gentle with people too.”

Mrs. Walters nodded, deeply moved by Joelle’s words. “There’s something I’d like to ask of you.” “Of course, go ahead.” Mrs. Walters glanced at him. “The animal protection association is holding an event soon. Josiah’s never been there, but I know he wants to.”

Joelle smiled. “So, you’d like me to take him?” “Yes, exactly. It’ll count as a lesson, so I’ll pay you. But please, don’t tell Josiah—it has to feel like a regular outing, not something done out of pity.”

“I understand,” Joelle replied, gently taking her hand. “But there’s no need to pay me. I don’t want Josiah to feel like I’m only spending time with him because you’re paying me.” She looked at Josiah. “That’d be too hard on him.”

Mrs. Walters was touched by Joelle’s words, a realization dawning on her that she had overlooked. For the first time, she saw things from a different perspective. “Joelle, now I see why Irene thinks so highly of you.”

Joelle was momentarily thrown for a loop but quickly offered a reassuring smile, gracefully steering the conversation in another direction. After a short break, she resumed the lesson with Josiah. Josiah was a serious student, his focus unwavering as he listened to each note he drew from his violin. Sometimes his tone was rich and clear; other times, it was rough, almost as if he were sawing wood. Yet his expression remained one of pure enjoyment, undeterred by the imperfections.

As the lesson concluded, Joelle smiled at him. “You’ve been doing well lately. A reward should be in order.” Josiah shyly scratched the back of his head, waving his hand to indicate that it wasn’t necessary.

Joelle pretended to think. “I heard the animal protection association is looking for volunteers. How about we check it out together?” Josiah froze in surprise. Joelle simply smiled, waiting for his reaction. Josiah was a bright boy, and the mention of the animal protection association immediately told him who had orchestrated this plan.

But Joelle’s intent was clear—she wanted him to understand that stepping out into the world wasn’t something to fear, nor was accepting others’ kindness. After a few moments, Josiah finally nodded. Joelle patted his head, her gesture full of approval and encouragement.

After leaving the Olive Villas, Joelle made her way to a nearby neighborhood. In her last meeting with Katherine, she had asked her friend to look into any openings for violin teachers. Although the Walters family paid well, teaching just one student wasn’t enough to make ends meet.

Joelle had arranged her visit in advance, and the family welcomed her inside. “I heard your teacher was Sloane Moore, the renowned international violinist,” the hostess remarked, scrutinizing Joelle with a critical eye. “May I see your skill first?”

That was just a regular part of the interview process. Joelle tightened her grip on her bow, took a deep breath, and smiled politely. “Of course.” She set up her violin and began to play a piece that, while not too difficult, was meant to showcase her abilities. However, midway through, the hostess abruptly stopped her.

“Just as I thought—nothing but hype. The only student of Sloane Moore? Please!” Joelle was left speechless, a wave of embarrassment washing over her. She felt as though she had let her teacher down. This family clearly had high expectations, and Joelle was certain she had no chance of getting the job.

But to her surprise, the hostess, now holding a wine glass, sat down on the sofa. “The student you’ll be teaching is in that room. You can go say hello now.” Joelle blinked in disbelief. “You mean, I passed the interview?”

“Yes,” the hostess replied casually, crossing her legs as she focused entirely on the television. “But keep it down. Don’t interrupt my show!”

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