Chapter 37
Brandon fell silent for a moment before looking at her, “I’m really sorry. I took you for granted before.”
“It’s not on you, we just want different things out of life, Sophia said, absentmindedly stirring her milk. When her lips pursed slightly, she looked up at him, “Can you just let me go? I won’t strip you of your rights as a father. You can see her, even take her to stay with you from time to time. Just let me have custody.”
Brandon’s milk hung in the air as he paused, then slowly set it down, looking at Sophia, “Sophia, I can’t do that.”
“It’s not fair to her either, Brandon said. “She might need a more stable environment to grow up in.
“And what about me? Is that fair?” Sophia asked softly, “Does having a child mean all my feelings and decisions have to revolve around her? Before I’m a mom, I need to be me first. I have my own thoughts, emotions, and life to live.”
Brandon pinched the metal spoon in his milk glass with his long fingers, his eyelids slightly drooped, as if deep in thought
Sophia didn’t make another sound to disturb him, just sipped her milk quietly.
As the rich creamy flavor slid down her throat, it used to be a taste of heaven, but hormonal changes during pregnancy quickly turned this delight into an emetic.
Before the milk even reached her stomach, the familiar nausea surged within Sophia. She instinctively pressed her
hand to her chest and turned her head to retch.
Brandon quickly stood up, walked over to her, pulling out a tissue with one hand while gently wrapping his other arm around her shoulder, patting her back.
“Feeling rough?” he asked, his deep voice tinged with an almost imperceptible anxiety.
Sophia shook her head slightly, “I’m fine.”
Reaching for water, Brandon was already a step ahead, bringing the glass to her lips.
“Have some water first As his calm, deep voice fell, the cool rim of the cup was already at her lips.
After helping her sip some lukewarm water, Brandon frowned at her, “Feeling better?”
Sophia nodded, “Much better. Thanks.”
Brandon didn’t reply but kept his palm on her shoulder, gently soothing the discomfort from the nausea. His hand now picked up a freshly squeezed strawberry kiwi juice, offering it to her lips, “Try some juice.”
Sophia hummed softly and drank, the fresh juice slightly eased her stomach discomfort.
Having gone through severe pregnancy sickness the first time, Brandon was much more adept at handling it now.
All the research he had done was being put to use, even the breakfast he prepared was carefully thought out, considering what nutrients to include and what could alleviate morning sickness.
Sophia never denied that Brandon would be a good father, and even when she was pregnant, a good husband.
Sophia’s pregnancy sickness was somewhat alleviated with Brandon’s diet, and she managed to eat a bit more.
She had classes today and rushed to school after breakfast. The topic of letting her go, interrupted by the morning sickness, was never brought up again.
Brandon personally drove her to the school.
Til pick you up after class,” he said as she got out of the car.
Sophia neither declined nor nodded, just softly told him. “You should head back. Drive safe.”
Brandon gave a slight nod, watching her enter the school building before driving away.
Sophia hadn’t even entered the classroom when she noticed a crowd gathered excitedly around the bulletin board, discussing something.
Chapter 37
Passing by the board, Sophia couldn’t help but glance at it-a job posting for a part-time architectural designer.
The hiring firm was Dempsey Architects.
Sophia had some recollection of this firm. It had been mentioned in the alumni group. The firm was a rising star in the industry over the past two years, attracting a lot of talented architects and producing several renowned design projects.
The job offer was generous, asking for resumes with portfolios, and if hired by the firm, there would be opportunities for long-term collaboration, a base salary, and commissions above industry standards. Most importantly, no need to clock in-just submit the projects on time.
Sophia felt tempted and couldn’t resist taking a photo of the job ad with her phone.
