When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0813

Paul stated plainly, “My feelings are straightforward and honorable. There’s nothing shameful about them, so why wouldn’t I admit it?”

Sam locked eyes with him, clenching his fists tightly. For the first time, he felt an unfamiliar sense of defeat.

“Does Miranda know?” he asked.

Paul didn’t hide anything, responding calmly, “I’ve tried to express my feelings, but after‘ some probing, her response was that she isn’t considering relationships at the moment .and wants to focus entirely on her studies.”

Sam chuckled. “So, she rejected you?”

“Not exactly,” Paul replied evenly, unbothered by the mockery in Sam’s tóne. “I haven’t formally confessed yet.”

Sam’s laughter grew bolder, his grin almost taunting.

Paul frowned slightly. “What’s so funny?”

“You,” Sam replied with a smirk. “You’re ridiculous.”

now doesn’t mean I won’t in the future. But you? Whether it’s now

chance.”

was the ridiculous

drained from Sam’s face in an

voice broke the tension as she

men fell silent immediately. There was a rare moment

plentiful, more than enough for an additional person like Paul

be shy. These dishes are all made by my grandma.

the meat–stuffed bell peppers too! They’re really

attentively followed her suggestions, sampling each dish she recommended. His earnestness earned him the title

It’s really impressive! And the bell pepen mushrooms are so fresh,” he commented, “Is that a hint of sourness I’m

widened in surprise. “Dr. Jefferson, you have an amazing gaad My grandma adds a touch of vinegar when marinating. It’s her trick

I came at just the right time, it seems. It feels like a stroke

the natural case between them–their easy benter, the unspoken understanding in their exchanges–and felt

Miranda cleared the table while Paul volunteered to wash the containers, They moved seamlessly, each knowing

noticed this too. It wasn’t their first time working in sync like this–that much was clear. His jaw tightened as frustration simmered beneath

something urgent at work I need to leave now,”