A Healer’s Journey (Finnegan and Nuthana)

Chapter 271 Casanova

“Everyone’s hard work is appreciated, but it’s just a birthday, after all. Nancy, let’s not do this again, okay? Everyone’s really busy, and I’m not too fussed about birthdays!” Bennett remarked as he and Nancy joined the rest of the party at the riverside pavilion.

Bennett looked resigned, gently chiding Nancy.

Rhiannon interjected, “Mr. Sanchez, Nancy’s gesture is her way of showing her respect and love. Please don’t be too hard on her. Plus, we have to dine anyway. Getting to celebrate your birthday while enjoying the great meal you’ve prepared is a treat for us all.”

Shaun and the others, despite this being their first encounter with Bennett, echoed this sentiment respectfully.

Bennett, with a reluctant smile, said, “Well, if everyone insists. Give me a moment, I’ll bring out my three- year-old pineapple wine for you all to try.”

As Bennett turned and noticed Finnegan, he nodded in acknowledgment before walking away.

Finnegan, taking a seat, queried, “Nancy, is this the first time you’ve celebrated your dad’s birthday?”

Nancy explained, “Dad’s never told me his birthday, and he avoids the question whenever I ask. I’ve never celebrated it before! I only found out today because I stumbled upon his ID while doing laundry. Otherwise, he probably would’ve never told me.”

This elicited a laughter from Shaun, who remarked, “It’s not unusual. I always forget my parents’ and grandparents’ birthdays until the last minute.”

“That’s pretty cold, man. I always remember my family’s birthdays. It’s a good chance to act nice and score some extra pocket money!” Zephyr chimed in.

Their banter continued until Bennett reappeared with a clay pot.

The chatter subsided as he placed the pot down and broke its wax seal. A tantalizing scent of pineapple and alcohol filled the air. “Brewed this three years ago,” Bennett explained. “Used almost ripe pineapples and double-distilled corn wine. By now, it should be smooth with a slightly sour, sweet undertone.”

Shaun sniffed the aroma. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think this was some kind of fruit juice.”

poured the wine, cautioning, “It’s mild and not too strong to taste. But it packs a punch later

brimming with confidence, declared, “Mr. Sanchez, don’t worry about us. You’re meeting us for the first time and probably aren’t aware of

ways of overconfidence and showboating, Finnegan lightly tapped his

“Go easy on me next time, Finnegan. It really hurt! And by the way, we all address him respectfully

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that seem a little disrespectful?”

Finnegan is my grandfather’s master, I

everyone should stick to their roles.

comment caused uproarious laughter throughout the room, effectively marking the start

dinner.

joining us in celebrating my father’s birthday. Let’s raise a toast to this wonderful gathering!” She took the lead, sipping her wine,

passed away, you single-handedly raised me for twelve years, sparing no effort

she added, “And that’s why I’m making this toast to you, Dad, as a gesture of my gratitude for all that you’ve done for me!” With that, Nancy raised her glass and emptied it in one smooth motion.

dear, should drink less of this; it packs a punch later on. And really, it’s me who owes you thanks. You’ve taught me so much about responsibility

joined in the toast, emptying his glass

dabbing at the corners of his slightly wet eyes, complained, “Do we have to get so emotional? Now you’ve got me missing my parents. Can’t we just focus on enjoying our drinks?”

mood lightened as everyone laughed.

and clapped his hands, signaling the start of the meal. “Let’s dig in. The pork chop and duck confit

sentimentality to a more jovial tone. Everyone picked

Bennett’s warning, the pineapple wine, though delightful to sip, had a potent kick.

downed a full glass, soon appeared slightly tipsy, on

seasoned drinker, was visibly affected, his face flushed and sweating

for a hundred years. Now look at you, all grown up and changing your mind. You’re such a rascal! Thinking about what my sister has been going through lately, it’s heartbreaking. Her genuine feelings for you,