When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0821

In the blink of an eye, it was the day before Easter. The sounds of the parade with hymns and prayers echoed through the streets, while the warm spring breeze brought the festive spirit indoors.

“Morning, Mimi. Why didn’t you sleep in a little longer?”

“Morning, Grandpa!” Miranda had just come downstairs when she spotted Aren in the living room, brewing tea. There was a pair of walnut–colored hand warmers resting by his side.

“What do you feel like having for breakfast?”

“Whatever’s in the kitchen is fine–I’m not picky,” Miranda replied with a smile.

After breakfast, it was only 8:30 am. Assuming Lionel and Mindy were still asleep, Miranda prepared to head upstairs to call them. To her surprise, Mindy had already retreated to the study with her laptop, while Lionel had gone out shopping with Fiona.

By 7:00 am, before the sun even rose, Lionel and Fiona had set off for the morning market with the driver. They returned by 9:30 am, and they seemed to have grown closer.

“Lionel, you really know so much! You even know how to haggle!” Fiona exclaimed in awe.

“Oh, not at all! I just buy groceries often, so maybe I have a tiny bit more experience than others…” Lionel chuckled.

simple compliment left

driver. As soon as Fiona got home and finished

impression after Fiona’s praise, Lionel followed her into the kitchen to lend a hand. Around noon, the family gathered for a simple meal, though “simple” still meant six or seven dishes. The real highlight was reserved for the

her nap, enjoying the relaxed holiday atmosphere. Afterward, she helped prepare Easter baskets for family

lined up stacks of brightly colored baskets on the coffee table, each adorned with ribbons and tags bearing cheerful Easter greetings. Some were filled with larger chocolate bunnies, others with assorted candles, and

and counted–30 of each size. It was no

Chapter 0821

+25 BONUS

with candies and other goodies, she couldn’t help but ask,

but this

often celebrating holidays quietly and without much fanfare. Visiting family or hosting large gatherings hadn’t been part of

and the family reunited, Aren and Fiona had rekindled their desire

for so long, and over the years, we lost touch with many relatives and friends. Some we still exchange an occasional phone

of having family and friends around. A lively house feels more like home. But it’s also practical as

10

happens to us down the line, or if you ever find yourself in need, having people to rely on can make