Rosalind had met Tilda’s cousin, Malcolm Hines.
He appeared completely different from her, exuding maturity and stability. Despite his young age, he was already a physics professor at a prestigious university, indicating a highly educated background.
Upon spotting Rosalind, Tilda’s cousin waved enthusiastically from where he stood beside Tilda.
Rosalind walked over to them, feeling a sense of helplessness in the midst of the bustling crowd. She couldn’t help but express her concern, “With so many people around, aren’t you afraid of drawing attention and being laughed at?”
Tilda chuckled and dismissed her worries, explaining, “Why would I be afraid? It’s precisely because there are so many people that I’m afraid you won’t notice me!” She then gestured towards the person beside her with her chin and introduced him, saying, “This is my cousin, Malcolm Hines. You remember him, right? The talkative teacher!”
Rosalind smiled and replied, “Yes, I remember.”
At the time, both Rosalind and Tilda had recently resigned from their previous company and started working at Prosperity Holdings together. Concerned about his cousin’s well-being, Malcolm had bought a small duplex nearby, fully furnished with all the necessary appliances and household items. It was clear that he was a considerate and caring cousin, and he shared a great bond with Tilda.
Malcolm affectionately patted his cousin’s head and said, “I’m doing this for your own good.”
“Yeah, you are always on my mother’s side.” Tilda rolled her eyes in response and then placed her arm around Rosalind’s shoulder. She introduced Rosalind formally, saying, “Let me properly introduce you. This is my best friend, Rosalind! She’s beautiful and kind-hearted, and currently single.”
Rosalind was taken aback by the introduction, but fortunately, Malcolm understood his cousin’s playful nature. He extended his hand to Rosalind and said, “Hello, Rosalind. We met last time when I helped Tilda move.”
“Hello, Malcolm,” Rosalind replied politely, shaking his hand before releasing her grip.
The three of them proceeded to offer their prayers and, afterwards, Tilda expressed her hunger. Malcolm kindly offered to buy food and water for them.
As soon as he left, Tilda began winking mischievously at Rosalind.
“So, what do you think? Is there a chance for you two…”
Rosalind was taken aback and interjected, “Stop it! Why are you even bringing this up?”
“I’m serious! I just found out yesterday that my cousin broke up with his girlfriend almost six months ago and is currently single!” Tilda’s excitement was palpable as she spoke animatedly. “I wouldn’t trust just anyone with you, but I can guarantee that he would make an amazing husband! He has a stable job, a high salary, and he’s the only child in his family. You know my uncle owns a chain of supermarkets, he can easily cover your mom’s medical expenses.”
“Please, stop!” Rosalind interrupted, feeling increasingly uncomfortable. “If that’s your intention, then I’d rather leave!”
“Leave? Don’t you like my cousin?”
“I never even considered it!” Rosalind knew Tilda meant well, but the thought of pursuing a romantic relationship with Malcolm was simply out of the question.
Just as the conversation grew awkward, Malcolm returned with the food.
He handed Tilda a snack and specifically gave Rosalind’s portion without garlic.
“I remember Tilda mentioning that you don’t eat garlic,” he said.
“Thank you…” Rosalind hadn’t felt awkward before, but after Tilda’s comments, she now felt entirely uncomfortable.
Feeling uneasy, she suggested they go back to the hospital to visit her mother.
“I can drive you. I came here by car,” Malcolm offered gently.
Tilda enthusiastically nodded beside them. “Perfect! I still want to explore this area a bit more. You go ahead and take her!”
“No need! I-” Rosalind began to reply but was interrupted by someone calling her name from behind.
She instinctively turned around and spotted a black Maybach parked by the roadside. The window rolled down halfway, revealing Ulric’s handsome face.
“Rosalind, come here.”