She was no stranger to the tumultuous past between Ariana and the Anderson Lineage. Though she
had remained silent about it all these years, deep inside, she had wished that Mitchel would distance
himself from Ariana.
However, she didn’t let her personal sentiments overshadow her etiquette.
“Mrs. Chadwick, it’s a pleasure,” Ariana greeted warmly.
Catalina managed a subdued smile, her tone noticeably cool.
“Hello.”
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtIt was then that Melon piped up, “Hello, Mrs. Chadwick.”
His voice was endearingly sweet, and he even complimented Catalina on her elegant dress, his words
dripping with genuine admiration.
It wasn’t until this moment that Catalina noticed the young boy by Ariana’s side. His charming aura
immediately endeared him to her.
Angela’s Library
The longing to embrace a grandchild of her own intensified at the sight of Melon. But she held back,
choosing to remain poised. She nodded in acknowledgment to Melon and refocused on Mitchel.
Feeling the undercurrents of the impending family dialogue, Ariana discreetly excused herself, claiming
she’d take Melon for a walk, and drifted away.
With Ariana gone, Catalina’s countenance turned more stern.
“What’s this all about? Are you looking to be a stepfather now?”
Mitchel, unfazed, replied, “Isn’t Melon a delight?”
Exasperated yet voiceless, Catalina retorted, “Delightful or not, that doesn’t answer my question.”
Mitchel sighed.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm“I merely invited her because an event like this necessitated a female companion. Don’t read too much
into it.”
Catalina scoffed.
“You think I’m naive? I know why you’ve frequented Melcorn so often these past years. It’s due to..”
But before she could press further, Mitchel interjected.
“The cake-cutting is about to start. We should head over.”
Mitchel’s diversion tactic worked, and the tension eased. Catalina gracefully redirected her focus,
moving toward the bustling center of the banquet.
Amid the sea of attendees, Ariana found a quiet corner with Melon, savoring the delicacies presented.
Mitchel soon gravitated to them.
However, before any substantial conversation could ensue, family duties beckoned him.