Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a Frown
“Today is the anniversary of Michelle’s mother’s passing. She’s going to be feeling down, so take her out for dinner or something fun to lift her spirits,” Diana urged.
Anthony frowned, glancing at his watch. “Can’t I just finish my meeting first?”
Diana’s voice rose with urgency. “You’re always buried in work! What’s more important than this? They can hold the meeting tomorrow.”
Frustration bubbled up in Anthony as he listened to his mother’s nagging.
“Fine, fine! I’ll go pick her up right now.”
Satisfied with his concession, Diana finally relaxed.
“I’ve already booked tickets for the evening at the amusement park. It was Michelle’s favorite place as a kid. No need to rush back; Marcus will be home with me.”
After hanging up, Anthony stared blankly at his computer screen, lost in thought.
Today wasn’t just the anniversary of Michelle’s mother’s death;
Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a it was also Abigail’s birthday.
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He remembered how Abigail had always wanted to celebrate her birthday with him, but every time, Michelle would call, needing his support.
It struck him that he hadn’t properly celebrated Abigail’s birthday in years.
Now, with Abigail still stirring up trouble, Anthony was reluctant to be the first to back down.
“Well, I can always celebrate with her next year,” he thought, shaking his head.
He took a sip of coffee to clear his mind before heading out to meet Michelle.
When Abigail arrived at the amusement park, she didn’t see Felix.
She tried calling him, but there was no answer.
Figuring he was caught up with work, Abigail found a nearby bench and settled in to wait.
Just then, a vendor wearing a Mickey Mouse mask approached, holding a bunch of colorful balloons.
“Excuse me, beautiful lady! Would you like to buy a balloon?”
Abigail had always loved little things like that, but ever since she
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Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a … had cautioned herself about the dangers of helium balloons after Marcus‘ birth, she hadn’t bought any.
But now that she was here, why not treat herself?
Abigail picked out a bright yellow Pikachu balloon.
“How much for this?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.
“It’s on the house for you! Happy birthday!” the vendor exclaimed.
Abigail was taken aback. “Wait, how did you know it’s my birthday?”
She had almost forgotten herself.
But before she could get an answer, the vendor turned and was swept away by a group of excited children.
Abigail had never really expected much from birthdays.
She had always hoped Anthony would celebrate with her, but that wish had never come true, even as they approached divorce.
Yet, Abigail couldn’t deny that when she had no expectations, even the smallest surprise could bring a smile to her face.
Like now.
Holding the balloon, she snapped a selfie with it, grinning widely.
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Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a … Just as she finished, the children who had surrounded the vendor returned, each holding a bouquet of flowers, forming at circle around her.
“Happy birthday, beautiful lady!” they chimed in unison.
Abigail’s heart swelled as she accepted their flowers. “Thank you so much, kids!”
After handing out the flowers, the children scampered off, leaving Abigail holding the colorful blooms, her smile brighter than ever. She gathered the flowers into a bouquet, feeling a warmth inside her.
As she turned around, her gaze landed on Anthony, who was standing a short distance away.
The sight of him made her heart race, a mix of excitement and anxiety washing over her.
For a moment, Abigail wondered if this surprise was orchestrated by him.
But then, reality hit her like a cold splash of water.
Michelle bounced over to Anthony, a balloon in hand, and effortlessly linked her arm with his.
Anthony, who had been staring blankly ahead with a cigarette. dangling between his fingers, quickly exhaled the smoke into the air and tossed the butt into a nearby trash can.
Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a… Michelle looked like a little sprite, beaming with joy, her laughter ringing out like music.
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Abigail turned away, not wanting her good mood to be spoiled by the sight of them together.
Still, a self–deprecating smile crept onto her face.
She thought, “Before the divorce, Anthony hadn’t even bothered
to celebrate my birthday. Now, as we near the end of our
marriage, there is no way he’ll make a fuss.
He probably doesn’t even remember what day it is.”
“Your smile looks worse than a frown.” Felix’s voice came from a short distance away.
Abigail snapped her head up and saw him in casual clothes, hands in his pockets, watching her with a playful smirk.
“You…” Abigail started, unsure how to respond.
Felix approached her. “Want to switch to a different amusement park?”
Abigail understood what he meant. With Anthony and Michelle so close, it was inevitable they’d bump into each other.
Taking a deep breath, she shook her head. “Avoiding it won’t help. It takes courage to face the past if I want a chance to start fresh.”
Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a…
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Felix nodded, clearly pleased with her response. “In that case, let’s go in. I’ve already got the tickets.”
He took the bouquet of flowers from her hands and led the way, with Abigail walking beside him.
The moment she saw him, she realized the balloon and flowers. had been his doing.
But Abigail couldn’t help but ask, “Does your studio offer such thoughtful service for clients? Birthday surprises included?”
Felix chuckled. “Do you have any idea how many clients we see every day? With all those birthdays, there’s no way to keep track.”
“Then how did you know today was my birthday?” Abigail pressed.
Felix paused, glancing over at a nearby stall selling flower crowns. He walked over and bought a white flower crown, returning to place it playfully on Abigail’s head.
“Amy told me. She said you were her best friend and that you’ve been feeling down with the divorce coming up. She asked me to help you celebrate your birthday.”
Abigail raised an eyebrow, skeptical. “Why doesn’t Amy just celebrate with me herself? I thought you were busier than she
is.”
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Chapter 12 Your Smile Looks Worse Than a … “Amy’s been swamped with opening a new branch for her bar. She really doesn’t have the time,” he explained; then, without giving Abigail a chance to ask more questions, he ushered her inside.
The evening amusement park was stunning, with shimmering lights reflecting off the water, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Anthony had just left the office and arrived with Michelle, still dressed in his suit, which felt out of place among the playful rides.
They wandered over to the giant swing and roller coaster.
Listening to the screams of thrill–seekers above, Michelle shivered.
“Let’s check out over there!”
Anthony nodded, following her toward the Ferris wheel.
“Anthony, the view from the Ferris wheel at night must be incredible! Can we ride it?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
In truth, Anthony had a bit of a fear of heights, and many of the rides weren’t suitable for him.
Michelle noticed his reluctance and quickly put on a
disappointed look. “I know you’ve had a long day at work, and I appreciate you coming out with me. If you don’t want to ride, we can always just head home and relax.”
