The Traps of the Black Swan (Book 2)

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At eight, in the Manoban mansion,

As soon as Sophia delivered the message to Megan that Zelda had decided to return, the first thing she did was rush up to Jordan who was reading a newspaper in the leisure room.

Jordan heard her footsteps and moved his paper away. He should be stopping her but he was amused seeing her delighted. Elder Harmon was curious too and noticed Megan composing quickly after noticing his presence.

Megan scolded herself in her mind thinking how could she forget they had a guest at home. She flashed a polite smile at Elder Harmon as she pleaded to Jordan to go with her, without wording it.

Jordan knew Megan wouldn't react in such a way if there was nothing important so he folded the papers, excusing himself, "Excuse us a minute, Chairman Harmon."

Then he went to Megan who hooked her arms and took him into the nearest room which was the library. "Dad, Mom is coming." She blurted out in excitement before shaking her head, "I mean Mom has decided to come. It might take a week to appoint somebody for the farm and a new housekeeper for the house..." She shook Jordan's hand who was still in shock, "Dad... Mom is coming back home." She chuckled seeing Jordan frozen without being able to believe his ears.

Jordan had waited to hear this for so many years. Hearing Megan repeat it, he knew his ears weren't ringing but it was so hard to believe.

Zelda had objected to his visit all these years while the rest could go to see her whenever they liked. She had come to the city when Ariel met with an accident however they had no time to meet and greet. So he was going to see her after another three years. There was anticipation, eagerness, and a hint of agitation on how she might treat him after so many years.

Will they have drastic changes? It was obvious as they lived far from each other without a word.

Will she criticize me in everything? He was ready to accept each of disapproval.

Will she forgive...

Jordan faintly jerked when Megan shook her hand and chuckled at him. He least wanted to look like a young husband eagerly waiting for his wife. So he coughed to silence her, she did but suppressed her chuckles making her face go red.

"I know you are happy, do you have to hide from me, Dad? Come on, I deserve a smile, for delivering the news. Just one, Dad. Am I asking a lot? Dad..." Even though she sounded like requesting, Jordan knew she was teasing him.

"Let her come." He grunted as though it didn't matter to him. He turned around and walked towards the door accurately knowing Megan would tell each reaction to Zelda as soon as the latter returned.

Megan pursed her lips and teased again, "Are you smiling now, Dad?"

Well, Jordan indeed smiled, the crow's feet on his wrinkled face was so deep that it spoke of his happiness. Hearing Megan put on a cold face and shoot her glance.

Megan held her laughter till Jordan left and burst out. She started calling Connor, Karsen, and also Shawn to let them know Zelda was coming. She had dialed Ruby Jane and Lisa's number but the call wasn't answered.

...

In the leisure room, Elder Harmon could feel the air around Jordan was lighter and happier. His movements were so fluid and effortless that Jordan looked ten years younger. Hence Elder Harmon couldn't help but comment, "Anything special? Elder Manoban, you are glowing."

Jordan's expression went blank hearing him but his eyes were lying. He couldn't believe it was so obvious. He thought it might be the experienced eyes of Elder Harmon.