After deciding on the match, Phillip's grandmother declared she was tired and had Sarah escort her back to her room for some rest.

Tina was left alone in the garden, well, not entirely alone - the table still held photos of the women who didn't make the cut.

She admitted to herself, perhaps a bit begrudgingly, that her judgments had been harsh and petty. After all, anyone considered by Mary to be a suitable match for her grandson had to be exceptional. Especially the one ultimately chosen - a lady of grace and elegance, seemingly born to be the matriarch of the Richardson household.

Unable to contain herself, Tina messaged Phillip in the early evening.

"Free for dinner tonight, big bro?"

Phillip replied ten minutes later: "Busy tonight."

Fine. Just fine.

Phillip came home late.

Tina was lying on her bed, gaming, glancing at the clock more times than she cared to admit, until finally, around ten, she heard Phillip's car pull into the driveway.

She muttered under her breath, "What kind of dinner lasts until now?"

Her friend, speaking through the headset, teased, "Must've been more than just dinner, right? Maybe a movie, a walk... isn't that how these dates usually go?"

like movies,"

Maybe he enjoys them but never had a chance with you around, always trying to get

side of justice!" her friend declared

"Justice, my foot."

got up and peered out the window, seeing Phillip's black car in the driveway. He looked up towards her

amber light, and after a moment,

sound of

made his way up. Tina turned off her mic and exited the game,

side, but his footsteps halted right outside

a gentle

to the door and opened it to find Phillip standing there, dressed sharply

word,

on his tie,

swiftly shutting

and pushing

to meet his lips in

set aside

chest

her around against the door, leaning in for a deeper kiss.

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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