After several moments of contemplation, Georgia's mind shifted gears, and the memory of her visit to her grandmother's old house the previous day began to emerge with crystalline clarity. She could vividly recall the poignant scene when the elderly lady, her grandmother, had gently clasped her hand, her eyes brimming with emotion, as she implored Jack to accompany Georgia to the hospital for a thorough check-up someday. The purpose behind this request was twofold: to address any potential health concerns and to prepare for the arrival of their eagerly anticipated baby.
The fact that Jack was fulfilling that promise today, so promptly, left her somewhat taken aback. The resolute man who was often defined by his cool and stoic exterior was proving to be unexpectedly attentive to her well-being.
As these thoughts swirled through her consciousness, a montage of indescribable images and emotions began to flit across her mind's canvas. Unbidden blushes suffused her cheeks, a manifestation of the intimate connection between their conversation earlier and the profound bond she shared with her grandmother. The prospect of becoming a mother herself was both thrilling and daunting, and she couldn't help but imagine the future with a mixture of trepidation and excitement.
Suddenly, the tranquility of her contemplation was disrupted as the office door swung open with a swift, unceremonious motion. Xiao Han's head appeared in the doorway, his eyes expectant as he inquired, "Georgia, have you made a decision?"
Georgia mustered a regretful smile. "I... I have some pressing matters to attend to this afternoon, so I won't be able to join you for lunch."
"Alright, no worries. Next time, then," Xiao Han replied amicably before retreating.
With Xiao Han gone, Georgia patted her still-flushed cheeks, took a deep, steadying breath, and prepared to make her exit from the office. Her mind was still whirring with the revelation of Jack's considerate gesture, casting a warm glow over her day.
Upon reaching the underground garage, she swiftly stepped into the waiting car, where Jack occupied the driver's seat. With a subtle nod of acknowledgment, she settled into the passenger seat, her heart awash with curiosity about the surprise he had in store.
The engine roared to life as Jack expertly started the car. Turning to her, he posed a question, "Where would you like to have lunch?"
Georgia pondered for a moment before answering with a shrug, "You decide."
In consideration of the potential visibility they might face if they opted for the pork chops restaurant she had suggested earlier, she opted to relinquish the decision to him.
"Very well," he concurred, smoothly steering the car toward their chosen destination.
It wasn't long before they arrived at a charming Hunan restaurant, and Jack courteously escorted Georgia to a window seat, where they could enjoy the view while savoring their meal.
As they perused the menu, Georgia couldn't help but feel a bit overwhelmed by the array of unfamiliar dishes. Her uncertainty about what to order was palpable. In an attempt to navigate the culinary terrain, she summoned the waiter and humbly requested some recommendations for the restaurant's specialty dishes.
The waiter, with a courteous demeanor, readily obliged. "I would highly recommend our special Zuo Zongtang chicken; it's renowned for its exquisite flavor. Additionally, you might delight in our farm bacon..."
Georgia listened attentively to the waiter's descriptions, her mouth watering in anticipation. However, amidst the discussion of flavors and aromas, a subtle sensation tugged at her calf.
Glancing downward, she was met with an unexpected sight—a young boy, appearing to be around three or four years old, had latched onto her skirt with a determined grip. He seemed intent on maintaining his connection to this newfound acquaintance, refusing to let go.
Intrigued and curious, Georgia bent down slightly and inquired with kindness in her voice, "Little friend, where are your parents?"
Her sweeping glance around the restaurant revealed no sign of the child's guardians. The young boy gazed up at her with wide, innocent eyes, still holding onto her skirt with unwavering determination.
His gaze alternated between Georgia and the tantalizing glass of juice that sat invitingly on her table, his expression irresistibly endearing.
Understanding his unspoken yearning, Georgia swiftly poured a glass of juice and handed it to him. "Take your time and enjoy..."
Across the table, Jack observed this heartwarming scene with a soft, indulgent smile, his eyes resting on Georgia's tender and compassionate demeanor.
It wasn't long before the boy's mother arrived, breathless with worry but also deeply grateful. She gently scooped up her child and expressed her heartfelt appreciation to Georgia for her kindness.
Georgia responded with a warm smile, shaking her head modestly. "It's no trouble at all. He's truly adorable."
The mother chuckled, playfully scolding her son. "Xuanxuan, let go. If you continue to pester this nice lady, your uncle will scold you later!"
Upon hearing his mother's words, the little boy's big eyes flitted between Georgia and Jack. After a moment of contemplation, he hesitantly released his grip on her skirt.
As the mother and her child departed, Georgia's smile lingered, and her eyes sparkled with affection and tenderness. The brief encounter had brought a touch of warmth and joy to her heart.
Seated opposite her, Jack raised an inquisitive eyebrow, his voice tinged with curiosity. "You seem to have a natural affinity for children."
Without a moment's hesitation, Georgia nodded emphatically. "Indeed, I do."
As she made this candid declaration, a sudden realization struck her, prompting her to turn and pose a question of her own. "And you?"