It was a lazy afternoon when Skyler and the kids cover.
Although they had agreed not to pursue the formalities of heritage recognition, Jessica still treated Skyler as one of the Stirling family, including him in the family dinner.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAurelia summoned William and Kane, "This is your uncle Raines." The children greeted Raines with impeccable manners.
Skyler eyed him curiously with an odd sense of familiarity, as if he had seen him somewhere before. Yet, the face was utterly foreign.
"Raines, have you ever been to Eastwood Heights?" "Nope, I've been living in Goldendell all my life, hardly ever travel elsewhere," Raines said with a casual shrug.
William suddenly sparkled his eyes, "Uncle Raines, you're from Goldendell? That's just a stone's throw from Goldstone, where mom and dad used to live." Scratching his head, Skyler said, "Why do you seem so familiar? You remindof someone | know, skinny just like you, always wrapped up tight even in the heat." Raines coughed softly, "I'm not well, always chilled to the bone." Jessica, concerned, suggested, "Health is crucial. You should see a good old family doctor to get that checked out." Raines responded with a slight smile, "Thanks, Jessica." A server brought in a plate of apple turnovers, Jessica's special recipe. Jessica knew they were Raines’ favorite.
"Try this apple turnover, see if it's just like what you used to love as a kid?" Raines chuckled, scratching his head, "I can't even remember what those tasted like when | was younger." Jessica sighed, "Poor child. If only your mother hadn't fallen ill, you wouldn't have hurt your head trying to save her." Taking a bite of the apple turnover, Raines remarked, "Delicious. You can't find such tasty treats in Goldendell." "Leopold has arranged a place for you, at Rosette Garden Estates, where you used to live," Jessica informed him.
"Alright," Raines nodded.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmAs Skyler munched on another turnover, he sneaked a glance at Raines.
The person he knew despised the taste of apples, feeling nauseous at the mere scent. Clearly, this wasn't the sperson, so he had been mistaken.
"These apple turnovers are amazing. | adore the flavor of apples, so fragrant." Jessica looked at him fondly, smiling warmly, "I think everything tastes better when you eat it. Kids should be just like you, not picky and loving all foods." Skyler grinned, showing off his white teeth, "Elysium has so many delicious things. I've gained weight since coming here." "Skyler, remember to watch your health. You might be a kid, but you're not small," Jessica said affectionately.
Skyler made a face, "I know, Jessica. I'll keep up with my workouts." Raines glanced at Skyler subtly, his gaze deep and intriguing. After finishing another turnover, he picked up his tea and sipped slowly.
"Have you got married yet, Skyler?" asked Raines.
Skyler shook his head vigorously, "No way, I'm not ready for that." He was still a kid, after all. How could a kid get married? Aurelia, sitting nearby, chuckled, "Skyler's focused on his career right now, so no marriage plans yet. Raines, do you have a girlfriend?" "If you hadn't mentioned it, I'd have forgotten. I'm married. I'm here to introduce my wife to you all." He reached out and took the hand of Lisbeth, who stood by his side, "This is Lisbeth, my assistant and wife. She's been a blessing, caring forand my mom all these years. We couldn't have made it without her." Everyone in the room took a moment to process the surprise.