Chapter 101 A Family of Three?

"Your car's not gonna cut it. Take mine," Raymond said, his tone making it clear there was no room for debate.

He reached over and gently pulled Melinda into the passenger seat.

The car was spacious and comfortable, with a faint, pleasant scent lingering in the air. As Melinda glanced down, she noticed her bracelet again.

It matched Raymond's a couple's set-making her heart race. She stole a glance at Raymond, who was focused on driving, his profile strong and defined.

Melinda's heart pounded uncontrollably. She felt like she'd been overthinking everything these past few days.

She didn't dare look directly at Raymond's face, only sneaking peeks before quickly looking away.

When they arrived at the preschool, Imogen was at the door to greet them. Seeing the sleek black car pull up, she hurried over. "Welcome, Mr. Thomas."

Raymond opened the car door, stepping out with his long legs. He stood firmly, his gaze calm as he looked at Imogen.

"I'm not here for an inspection, just picking up my kid," he said coolly, his voice carrying an undeniable authority.

Imogen's smile froze, and she stood there awkwardly, unsure how to respond. She nervously tucked her hair behind her ear, trying to cover her embarrassment.

At that moment, Melinda quickly got out of the car, smiling at Imogen. "Ms. Fairfax, hello. Actually, Mr. Thomas meant that it's after work, and he just gave me a ride to pick up my child."

Imogen sighed in relief, forcing a smile. "Oh, right, of course. My memory! The kids will be out in 15 minutes. Mr. Thomas, Ms. Sharp, please come to the office and wait."

Raymond didn't respond, instead taking Melinda's hand and heading straight into the preschool through a side door.

"Where's the registration room?" Imogen quickly followed, leading them to the data entry room.

The data entry room was on the first floor, clean and decorated with cute cartoon images on the walls.

Inside, a young female teacher was on duty. When she saw Raymond, her eyes lit up, and she couldn't help but sneak a few glances at him.

She thought to herself, Sam's dad is so handsome! Not only is he good-looking, but his presence is also incredibly impressive.

Melinda noticed the teacher's gaze and felt a bit annoyed.

Before she could say anything, Raymond was already at the registration desk, picking up a pen to fill in his name under the "Father" section.

She smiled wryly, knowing Raymond was always this domineering.

But she didn't bother arguing over such a small matter.

After all, their relationship was pretty much out in the open.

As they left, Raymond smiled and said, "From now on, we can both pick up the kid. Oh,

and let's get Stuart registered too. He can help out when we're busy."

"No!" Melinda quickly stopped him. "I'll handle the pickups. This is the Thomas Group's elite preschool. If people start gossiping..."

She didn't want to draw too much attention. Raymond replied, "You're my woman.

Who dares say anything about you? They won't last a day in Shadow City."

His voice carried an undeniable authority, leaving Melinda speechless.

She looked at Raymond, feeling a surge of emotion.

She knew that Raymond would always stand by her, no matter what.

As the school bell rang, parents began gathering at the entrance.

Some recognized Raymond and glanced at Melinda, curious about the young woman with him.

"Mr. Thomas, you finally came to pick me up!" Sam shouted happily, running out of the preschool and hugging Raymond's neck tightly.

Sam bypassed Melinda and ran straight to Raymond.

Melinda felt a bit left out.

She turned to see Raymond holding Sam securely.

Melinda looked at Raymond's slightly smug eyes with a hint of jealousy.

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She was taken aback. When did Raymond win Sam over so completely? It was frustrating.

Even his own mom didn't matter anymore.

Once in the car, Sam bombarded Raymond with questions.

"Mr. Thomas, why did you come with Mommy today?"

"Mr. Thomas, will you pick me up from school from now on?" "Mr. Thomas..."

Raymond answered each question, occasionally teasing Sam.

Melinda wanted to cover Sam's mouth to stop him from talking.

The atmosphere in the car became subtly charged with Sam's innocent chatter.

She accidentally met Raymond's affectionate gaze, her heart fluttering. She quickly looked away.

Back home, Melinda cooked in the kitchen while Raymond played with Sam in the living room. The warm, harmonious scene made Melinda feel like they were a real family.

After dinner, Sam eagerly pulled Raymond's hand, wanting to go out and play. Raymond stood up, scooping Melinda off the couch and taking her outside too. "Change your shoes, let's take Sam out."

The night was peaceful as the three walked, their shadows merging on the ground. Melinda's steps gradually moved closer to Raymond, and so did their shadows.

She smiled.

"Mr. Thomas, will you teach me next time? I want to be as good as you," Sam said with admiration and excitement.

Raymond looked down at Sam walking beside him. "Sure! When you're a bit older, I'll teach you."

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Sam played until he was sweaty, and Melinda worried he'd catch a cold, so they headed back home.

"Sam, go get your pajamas. I'll give you a bath soon."

Sam obediently went to his room to get his pajamas.

Melinda noticed Raymond's sweat-soaked shirt clinging to his body, revealing his toned muscles. Her cheeks flushed, and she quickly looked away, afraid he'd notice.

"Had enough of a look?" Raymond's deep voice held a hint of amusement. Melinda turned away, embarrassed. "Um... Sam's too playful. It's getting late, you should go."

Raymond gently wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her close. "Using me and then kicking me out?"

Raymond's presence was intense and overwhelming, making Melinda's heart race. She avoided his gaze. "No."

Raymond's eyes lingered on her lips, his throat tightening.

"Mommy, time for my bath!" Sam called, running out of his room with his bear pajamas.

Melinda quickly grabbed the pajamas and pushed Sam towards the bathroom. "Alright!"

Soon, the sound of running water and Sam's singing filled the bathroom.

When Raymond walked in, he saw Sam splashing in the tub, looking up at him.

Raymond's mind flashed back to the day Melinda had fallen into the bubble-filled tub,

her skin, her curves, her breath...

His heart skipped a beat.

"Mr. Thomas, see you tomorrow," Sam said with a sweet smile, waving.

"Sam, see you tomorrow."