When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0818

At the Garrison estate, Aren and Fiona had been preparing for their daughter’s and son–in- law’s visit for over a week. They meticulously cleaned every corner of the house, making sure everything was spotless.

Mindy’s old room was rearranged, with the single bed replaced by a double. Knowing Lionel’s love for potted plants, they even set up a small area near the sunroom. It was now fully stocked with pots and various types of soil

The festive decorations for Easter were all in place, filling the house with the spirit of the season. From top to bottom, the home radiated warmth and celebration.

Early that morning; Aren and Fiona dressed in newly made matching outfits, ready to welcome their daughter and son–in–law with vibrant energy.

“What time is it now?” Fiona asked.

Aren glanced at his watch. “Just past 11:00 am.”

“They should be here soon. The train arrived at the station a little after 10:00 pm, so it’s about time. Are the slippers ready?”

The housekeeper nodded. “Don’t worry, they’re all set.”

“Is the tea still warm?” Aren asked with concern.

“It is,” the housekeeper replied.

“Warm isn’t enough! Tea has to be steaming hot to have the right flavor. Pour it out—I’ll brew a fresh pot.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Oh, and don’t slice the fruit yet.” Fiona suddenly remembered. “It’ll lose its freshness. Wait until they’re here.”

“Got it.” novelbin

“Is the living room tidy? What about the bathroom? Was it cleaned again this morning?” Aren asked.

Fiona added, “How’s the kitchen prep going?”

The two meticulously reviewed every detail, ticking off an invisible checklist, the household staff somewhat bewildered. Finally, the sound of a car engine outside interrupted their flurry of questions.

“They’re here! They’re here!”

When Mindy and Lionel stepped through the door, walking side by side, with Miranda

following close behind, Aren and Fiona stood waiting at the entrance. Watching their daughter and son–in–law arrive with their granddaughter felt like the fulfillment of a decades–long wish.

At last, the moment they had dreamed of had come.

Lunch was a feast that Fiona had carefully planned, featuring all of Lionel’s, Mindy’s, and Miranda’s favorite dishes.

“Min, try this,” Fiona said while beaming. “You used to love it so much. And this one… and this… oh, and these too…

Her gaze never left her daughter, as though she could never look at her enough.

“Mom,” Mindy said helplessly, “stop focusing on me. You and Dad should eat too!”

“Yes, yes, we’re eating!” Fiona replied enthusiastically.

Aren nodded in agreement. “Don’t worry about us. You eat more. Lionel, you and Mimi too.

“Thanks, Dad,” Lionel said, smiling as he ate. “Mom’s cooking is amazing. Every dish is better than the last.”

Fiona’s face lit up with joy. “If you like it, eat more!”

“Of course. But you both should eat too!”

“Yes, yes!”

Despite picking up their cutlery, Aren and Fiona spent more time watching Mindy and Lionel than actually eating. Mindy couldn’t help but laugh in exasperation.

Finally, Miranda stood up, grabbing a piece of beef and tomato from the stew for each of them. “Grandpa, Grandma, if you keep staring at Mom, she’s going to get uncomfortable.”

“Ah, right, right,” Aren said quickly, popping the beef into his mouth. “No more staring. Let’s eat!”

Fiona reluctantly pulled her gaze away, though her eyes still sparkled with warmth. If looks could take physical form, Fiona’s gaze would have been stickier than cobwebs and sweeter than syrup.