When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0823

Nelly linked arms with Timothy and greeted Mindy with a smile. “Min, Lionel, what a surprise to see you here! I hadn’t heard from Mom and Dad that you’d be spending Easter in Elgerson. This is wonderful–a full family reunion.”

Her words were polished, and her smile was radiant.

Aren and Fiona exchanged a look. Ever since Nelly married into the Cooper family, she had never returned home for major holidays like Easter or Thanksgiving.

Fiona could understand, partially. On one hand, she hadn’t wanted to see Nelly either, so her absence was a relief. On the other hand, Nelly had her own family obligations now, with in–laws and kids to tend to. It left her with little room for visits to her childhood home.

Yet, it could be said that once the seed of dislike was sown, everything about the other party felt unsatisfactory in every possible way.

Take Mindy, for example. She had returned for Easter, and Fiona’s smile hadn’t faltered all day. But now that Nelly was here, that smile had visibly dimmed.

Still, it was a holiday, and asking Nelly to leave wasn’t appropriate–especially with Sam present. Although Aren and Fiona weren’t thrilled, they invited Nelly and Timothy to join them at the table.

The housekeeper quickly prepared two clean sets of plates and utensils. Nelly took her seat with a smile. “What an honor to get this treatment! It seems I have Min to thank for it today.”

No one responded to her comment.

picked up the serving spoon and placed some

tone remained neutral. “I can serve

but froze as soon

“Yes, she’s been busy in the kitchen since this morning. Most of the dishes on the table were

of bitterness surged through Nelly. She already knew about all the favoritism

years; I thought I’d never get to taste

your dinner and say

you trying to stuff my mouth with

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0823

Dad?”

“I remember you’re not this

because I’m at my parents‘ house today. Isn’t it absurd if I can’t

“I’m not saying you can’t talk, but could you at

she was

suddenly, breaking the tension. “Grandma spent a lot of time preparing this meal. You should try this–it’s one

go, picking up her bowl and regaining her smile. “It’s delicious. Mom’s cooking is as good as I