When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0739

Fortunately, for now, Fiona was satisfied with Lionel as a son–in–law. He was gentle, attentive, and thoughtful, with decent looks and a respectable height.

Having graduated from Queenstone College and now working as a physics teacher at a prestigious high school, he might not be wealthy, but he was certainly respectable.

“The sourdough and maple oatmeal bread are so good,” Fiona said after a few bites while nodding in approval.

Aren, who had already finished his first slice, was helping himself to a second. “You should try the pumpkin seed one with butter–now that’s bread.”

Feeling somewhat embarrassed by the praise, Lional chuckled sheepishly and scratched his head. “As long as you both enjoy them, that’s all that matters. I’ve made extra, so let me know if you need more.”

“You’ve been busy since early morning; come, sit and eat with us. You’ve worked hard enough,” Fiona encouraged warmly.

Lionel nodded with a smile. He grabbed a slice and took a seat beside Mindy. “It’s no trouble at all. It’s what I

should do.”

The family’s cheerful and harmonious atmosphere made Nelly, sitting off to the side, feel somewhat like an outsider. She pursed her lips slightly before quickly recovering her composure and smiling. “Dad, Mom, I’ve booked a table at a nice restaurant for lunch. Let’s go out and celebrate our family reunion.”

Aren frowned at the suggestion. With Fiona’s current health, the heavy oil and salty dishes typically served at restaurants were unsuitable for her.

Mindy paused, clearly thinking along the same lines, and then said, “Going out is too much hassle. Why don’t we just eat at home? Lionel is a great cook, and it’ll be more comfortable.”

Lionel immediately agreed. “It’s farmers market day, so I can pick up fresh ingredients. Lunch at home sounds perfect.”

Fiona’s smile widened, though she still feigned concern. “Won’t that be too much trouble for you?”

“Not at all,” Lionel reassured her.

Aren chuckled as he bit into the bread. “Great, then we’ll get to enjoy Lionel’s cooking at lunch.”

No one asked Nelly’s opinion, and the decision was made.

After breakfast, Lionel cleaned the kitchen and grabbed a small cart to head to the market. Miranda slipped on her shoes and jacket and said, “Dad, I’ll go with you.”

“Sure thing.”

At the market, Lionel seemed to know everyone.

“Mr. Sutton, you’re a bit later than usual today,” one vendor remarked.

Lionel nodded while smiling. “I had some guests over this morning.”

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+25 BONUS

Chapter 0739

“Mr. Sutton, today’s fish filet is fresh–want a pack?”

“How about some beef? I’ll give you a good deal on a whole cut.”

Another vendor recognized Miranda. “That’s your daughter, isn’t it? Such a beauty! Is she seeing anyone? My nephew’s still single–how about introducing them?”

Someone nearby immediately interjected, “Don’t be ridiculous! Mr. Sutton’s daughter is a graduate student at Bedford College! Do you think your nephew’s worthy of her? Dream on!”

Some had also noticed the luxury cars parked outside the Suttons‘ house and speculated about the nature of

their guests. They guessed that it was surely someone important.

Lionel, good–natured as always, corrected them with a smile, “It’s my in–laws visiting.”

The fish vendor teased him. “Ah, so you’re planning a big feast to impress the in–laws, huh?”

Lionel chuckled but didn’t deny it. Meanwhile, Miranda acted as his assistant, carrying bags, loading the cart, and handling payments.

Back home, Lionel dove straight into the kitchen, and the aroma of simmering meat filled the air before long, Mindy glanced at the clock. “Should we call Sam and invite him for lunch?”

Fiona nodded. “He’s probably working at the hotel. It’s a good idea to let him know.”

Mindy pulled out her phone, only to realize she didn’t have Sam’s number. “Mimi, can you call your cousin

and tell him to come over for lunch?”

Miranda hesitated for a moment, realizing that Mindy meant Sam.

Her cousin…

The term felt unfamiliar, even strange. But she knew she would get used to it.

Eventually, so would Sam.