Chapter 0021 +25 BONUS Dads eyes light up with the question . Well , your moms really turned the garden into something special , and her cooking , as you know , is better than ever , he says with a proud glance at Mom . And believe it or not , Mom chimes in with a chuckle , your dads been joining me in aerobics classes every week . Keeps us young . Dad nods , adding , And Ive picked up a few consultant gigs here and there , just to keep busy . But were taking it easy , enjoying retirement . How about you , dear ? What have you been doing ? Mom asks . Oh , you know … I just moved back to my old apartment , I manage to say , trying to sound nonchalant . Mom and Dad share a knowing look , a silent conversation passing between them . Dad sighs deeply . Serena , something happen between you and your husband ? he asks , his voice laced with worry . Actually , Bills not my husband anymore , I admit . We just got divorced . Mom and Dad freeze . Oh , sweetie . Im so sorry to hear that , Mom says . I muster a small smile . Its okay . I think this is for the best did Dads utensils clatter onto his plate . Okay , what did that son of a bitch do ? You werent able to call us for three years , and this is the news you bring us ? Dad , calm down , I urge , reaching across the table to gently touch his hand . Im okay now , really . Theres no need for anger . But you had us worried , honey , he confesses . I know , and Im really sorry , I say . But I promise , he never hurt me or anything . We just came to see how different we are from each other . My dad has always been the protective type , with a strict sense of justice . Knowing him , hed be furious if he thought Bill had abandoned us , especially now . But revealing my pregnancy might lead him to that conclusion . Mom , Dad , I start , eager to steer the conversation to safer waters . I could really use your help with something Mom looks intrigued . What is it , dear ? You know how I used to spend hours making jewelry as a kid ? Ive been thinking … why not turn that passion into something real ? I want to start my own handcrafted jewelry business . Moms eyes light up at the idea . Thats wonderful ! she exclaims . I remember buying you all those beads , and how youd sit for hours making those beautiful friendship bracelets for your school friends . Dad , with a cautious tone , asks , So , how could we help you with that ? I was hoping you might lend me some money to get started , I say , a bit unsure . I didnt ask for any financial settlement from the divorce , so Im short on funds . I dont know , honey . Theres too much competition in the jewelry business , Dad says . Dont get your hopes too high . My dads great at business , but he hit a rough patch when his partner took off with the companys money , leaving Dad to deal with the mess . He couldve been very successful if that hadnt happened . I really value his advice on +25 BONUS Chapter 0021 business matters . Im ready for any questions you might have , I tell Dad , handing him a folder . This has all my research and how I plan to make the business profitable . This is quite thorough , Serena , he finally says . Youve really thought this through . Still , Im not so sure this might work . I just dont want to see you get disappointed . Please , Dad . Give me a chance to prove I can do this . I wont let you down , I plead Dad sets the folder aside . Fine , he concedes , his voice softened by affection . Your mom and I will help you with your business . Id do anything for you , honey . Thanks , Mom and Dad , I express . I knew I could count on you . Dads expression hardens . But I wouldnt forgive your ex husband , he states firmly . I swear , if I ever see that motherfucker again , hes gonna get it . I hasten to soothe him , Relax , Dad . Youre never gonna see him again . Ironically , just as those words leave my lips , my phone breaks the brief calm with its insistent ring . 1 glance at the screen , and a jolt of surprise runs through me . Its Bill calling . 1 +25 BONUS Ch In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.