Chapter 237 - Quiet Negotiations Unfold
During lunch, Veronica purchased movie tickets for their afternoon entertainment. After their meal, the group enjoyed the film before indulging in some retail therapy.
While Adrian was engrossed in trying on various outfits and Thomas busied himself selecting new figurines for his collection, Veronica turned to Sabrina who sat beside her. "I'll drive you home later," she stated casually.
Sabrina's face fell at the suggestion. "Refuge? I don't want to go home yet. Can't I stay at Granny's for another night? I could return tomorrow evening instead."
Taking a measured sip of water, Veronica explained her reasoning. "Adrian and Thomas have already spent the entire day with you. Tomorrow, they really need to focus on completing their homework. If you stay at Granny's, you'll only distract them."
"I promise I won't bother them," Sabrina countered quickly. "I can entertain myself with my tablet. They won't even know I'm there."
Veronica didn't press the matter further, but when an opportunity presented itself, she discreetly messaged Cullen, requesting he arrange transportation for Sabrina later in the day.
Cullen appeared to be occupied, as no reply came through for quite some time.
After Adrian finished her shopping, they wandered around the mall a while longer before finally heading back to the Murray residence.
Mary and Phillip's faces lit up with genuine delight when they saw Sabrina again. Their affection for the charming little girl was undeniable. She possessed a natural sweetness that endeared her to everyone.
After dinner, Sabrina even accompanied Mary on her evening walk, which left the older woman practically glowing with happiness.
Still, no response had come from Cullen.
With no alternative arrangements made, Sabrina spent another night at the Murray residence.
The following day unfolded as planned. Adrian and Thomas sequestered themselves in their rooms to complete their academic responsibilities. True to her word, Sabrina kept herself quietly entertained downstairs, sitting beside Veronica without causing any disruption.
Finally, Cullen's message arrived, informing Veronica that someone would be coming to collect Sabrina shortly.
Veronica read the message but chose not to respond.
Moments later, Sabrina's phone rang. Looking up at Veronica, she announced, "It's Dad calling."
Veronica acknowledged with a noncommittal hum.
Whatever Cullen communicated during their conversation prompted Sabrina to set down her phone and turn to Veronica. "Mom, Dad says he's taking me out to play..."
"Yes, your father mentioned that to me," Veronica replied evenly. "If you want to go, then go."
Thirty minutes later, the car Cullen had dispatched arrived at the Murray home.
As always, Mary found it difficult to see Sabrina leave. She packed an assortment of home-cooked meals and snacks for the child to take home.
Watching the vehicle disappear down the street, Mary couldn't contain her disappointment. "I used to think he was quite generous with his time, but now... It's only been two days, and he's already in such a hurry to take her back."
Without waiting for Veronica to comment, Mary retreated inside, her mood visibly dampened by Sabrina's departure.
Just then, Veronica's phone rang with an incoming call from Leon.
"I just concluded a meeting with Cullen's lawyer," he reported. "I've received the revised divorce agreement. The three additional properties are valued at approximately one billion in total—everything appears to be in order."
"Understood," Veronica responded.
Leon continued, "Cullen's lawyer also mentioned that if you require funds urgently, he's prepared to transfer a portion of the assets to your account in advance. What are your thoughts on this?"
Yesterday's misunderstanding with Cullen about her financial motivations lingered in Veronica's mind. The two birthday gifts he had given to Mary had already been auctioned, and the resulting funds had been deposited.
Phillip no longer faced financial constraints.
Nevertheless, Veronica replied, "Proceed with the advance."
Their divorce wasn't finalized yet—anything could still change. Since Cullen was willing to provide the funds now, there was no reason to refuse.
After all, if she declined now, there was no guarantee the offer would remain available later.
"Alright," Leon confirmed. "I'll handle the arrangements."
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