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.

left

household staff had been given a break for the holiday, leaving only two chefs and a driver. As soon as Fiona got home and finished sorting the groceries, she dove straight into the kitchen, clearly intent on making

to lend a hand. Around noon, the family gathered for a simple meal, though “simple” still meant six or seven

room for a few rounds of chess after her nap, enjoying the relaxed holiday atmosphere. Afterward, she helped prepare Easter baskets for family

and tags bearing cheerful Easter greetings. Some were filled with larger chocolate bunnies, others with assorted candles, and smaller ones with colorful eggs

of basket was carefully arranged and counted–30 of each

Chapter 0821

+25 BONUS

other goodies, she couldn’t help but ask, “Do we really have

“Not before, but this year’s

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

reunited, Aren

and over the years, we lost touch with many relatives and friends. Some we still exchange an occasional phone call with, but others… It’s been

for the joy of having family and friends around. A lively house feels more like home. But it’s also

10

We’re wired to support one another. If anything happens to us down the line, or if you ever find yourself in need, having people to rely on can