Dear Ex-wife Marry Me (Maja and Ian) novel Chapter 1981

Shirley was concerned that Abner might refuse her offer. After all, they were essentially strangers, and entrusting one's fate to someone you barely know is unsettling for anyone.

But when Abner's gaze settled on her face, studying her for a few seconds before shifting away, he simply said, "I'm in."

Shirley couldn't help but smile as she pulled him along. "Alright, let's go sign the paperwork."

The signing went smoothly. The woman received two thousand dollars, eager to count it right there in the mayor's house.

Feeling somewhat guilty, the mayor offered Shirley a meal to stay a bit longer.

Shirley declined. She feared other unexpected problems might arise, and besides, she disliked the place and wanted to leave as soon as possible.

"Abner, take the passenger seat."

Standing in front of the car, Abner realized he had never been in a sedan before.

He awkwardly pulled the door open and after getting in, didn't know how to fasten the seatbelt.

Sitting in the driver's seat, Shirley leaned over to fasten it for him.

It was clear from Abner's skinny frame that he was malnourished, especially concerning given he was about sixteen, an age when boys need plenty of nutrition.

After securing his seatbelt, Shirley rested her hands on the steering wheel.

"Abner, how old are you today?"

"Just turned sixteen."

"I see. Then I'm almost six years older than you. Just call me Shirley."

"Okay."

Feeling a bit tired, Shirley pulled into the first rest stop they came across.

"Stay here for a bit, I'll grab us something to eat."

Abner nodded quietly, his hands fidgeting with the seatbelt.

Abner shook his head.

"Alright, then keep an eye on the time and wake me in an hour."

He nodded, slowly taking the fruit from her.

Shirley was genuinely exhausted after driving all day and night.

She reclined her seat and was soon asleep.

The sunlight was strong outside, and even with the air conditioning on, the light was uncomfortable until someone adjusted the visor for her, allowing her to sleep peacefully.

Throughout the journey, Abner was captivated by the landscape whizzing past the window.

His luggage consisted of a single suitcase filled with ill-fitting old clothes, hand-me-downs from an uncle, and the rest were textbooks.

Uncertain of what the future held, he felt an inexplicable comfort in Shirley's gaze and found himself unwilling to reject her offer.