When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0816

Aren then stepped into the kitchen, asking Fiona if she needed any help. She shot him a look. “Even if I did, you wouldn’t be of much use. When have you ever done anything in the kitchen?”

“Heh… fair point. But I can keep you company.

Fiona glanced toward the living room. “That Paul seems like a great young man. Handsome, well–mannered, with an impeccable background.”

She added, “The Jeffersons are a prestigious family, and more importantly, they’re known – for their strong family values. You never hear of any scandals from their side!”

Aren raised an eyebrow. “What’s all this about? Although I agree, Paul is quite impressive.”

She gave him a knowing look. “Don’t you think he and Mimi…”

“Hah! Don’t start imagining things. The man said it himself–he’s just a friend. You’re reading too much into it.”

“I’m not imagining anything,” Fiona replied, a touch defensive. “But whether it’s just friendship or something more, shouldn’t we at least look out for Mimi and make sure she’s in good company?”

“She’s not a little kid anymore! Who she befriends is her business. We shouldn’t interfere,

11 Aren said.

“I know that. I’m not trying to meddle… I’m just sharing my thoughts about Paul. Is that wrong?”

“Fine, fine. But keep your thoughts to yourself. Don’t bring this up in front of Mimi. You’ll only make things awkward for her.”

Fiona smirked. “Do I seem like the type to lack tact?”

Aren hesitated, then quickly answered, “No, of course not.” novelbin

Suddenly, she lowered her voice. “By the way, did you notice? Sam seemed a little off tonight.”

“Did he? I didn’t notice anything unusual.”

“Come on, it’s obvious. He’s been sulking since he walked in. He barely said a word and just buried himself in work. You didn’t pick up on that?”

“Maybe he’s just dealing with stress from work. Men his age are supposed to push themselves hard. Running into challenges is normal. He’ll figure it out.”

“I hope so,” Fiona murmured while letting out a quiet sigh.

酸

During dinner, the houselsonquer brought the dishes to the table, and Paul was surprised to see two of his favorite dishes among them.

Fiona smiled warmly. “Mimi mentioned you prefer lighter flavors, so 1 whipped up a couple of dishes with that in mind. I hope they suit your taste.”

Her coolding was undeniably excellent, and Pad demonstrated his approval by thoroughly enjoying the meal. Feeling pleased by his enthusiasm, Fiona couldn’t resist piling more food onto his plate,

. Seeing the impressive mountain of food on his plate, Paul glanced at Miranda for help.

Miranda coughed lightly, “Grandma, let us serve ourselves, You should eat too.”

“Alright,” Fiona relented, but she still placed some food on Paul’s plate, albeit less frequently.

Paul then let out a small sigh of relief,

“Sam, here’s your favorite,” Fiona said, using the serving spoon to add food to his plate. She made sure to share her attention,

Sam chuckled helplessly, “Grandma, I’m not a kid, I can serve myself.”

“You’re all kids in my eyes,” she quipped with a laugh.

Just then, Sam and Paul briefly locked eyes across the table. They then quickly looked away, each pretending to focus on their meal.

Paul’s composed and courteous demeanor left a strong impression on Fiona and Aren. From dinner to his departure, the couple was notably warm and welcoming toward him. When it was time to leave, they insisted on seeing him to the door, even urging him to visit again.

This time, Paul didn’t hesitate. He simply smiled and agreed. Standing by his side, Miranda echoed the sentiment with a smile. “Thank you for everything, Grandma and Grandpa. I’ll head out now.”

“Alright, take care and drive safely. Paul, thank you again for bringing Mimi over.‘

“It was no trouble at all,” Paul replied with an easy smile. “It was my pleasure.”

Standing behind the couple, Sam watched the exchange from a distance. To him, the scene was almost too perfect. A harmonious picture of warmth and connection–as if they were a family.

And suddenly, Sam felt… a little bitter.

Why him?

Why did Paul get to fit in so easily?