Chapter 134

Summer faded into fall. That morning, Tara was in the villa's living room unpacking local specialities mailed over by Mandy. No matter what she said, Mandy insisted on sending them. She had just sent a return gift yesterday, warning that if they sent anything again, she would refuse to accept it. Only then did Mandy reluctantly agree to receive it while repeatedly saying she was being too generous. Tara opened the package and placed the local specialties aside. In the first week she had moved into the villa, both Mandy and Judy had called her to say the development project had been canceled and reassured her not to worry. Their cheerful tone over the phone had truly put her at ease. Suddenly, Soren hugged her from behind and brought his phone to her ear so she could listen to a song. Tara thought the new song was especially tender and emotional, completely unlike his usual personality. It felt jarring, to say the least. "It's nice, and very heartfelt." Soren kissed her cheek wi