When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0899

Paul paused, then chuckled. “Why do you ask?”

Miranda responded thoughtfully, “Because I think it’s you. Am I right?”

After a brief pause, he nodded. “Yeah.”

11

She smiled. “I knew it… No wonder you said we should let things calm down before making any moves. You’d already planned this beforehand, hadn’t you?”

“I thought about it, but I wasn’t sure it would work,” Paul admitted. That was why he hadn’t brought it up. He knew promising uncertain outcomes only led to disappointment. I also have a question for you.”

Miranda blinked. “What is it?”

“Why do you think it’s me and not Sam? Or did you ask him too?”

“No, I didn’t,” she answered.

“Then, how can you be so sure it’s me?” Paul pressed.

Miranda paused for a moment. By then, they had reached the top of the stairs and stopped in front of their respective doors.

“Because…” She looked at him and spoke each word deliberately. “I believe you understand the struggles of the Clifford family. You see how backward and stifling life in the village can be. You just can’t bring yourself to look the other way.”

Sam had noticed it, too. He had told Joli what needed to be done, but that was as far as he went. To him, the challenges faced by the Cliffords were part of their destiny–something he had no right to interfere with. Offering advice was the extent of his involvement, and he considered his role complete.

However, Paul was different. He saw the same problems, understood what needed to be done, and recognized that Joli couldn’t achieve the best outcome alone.

in to help Joli resolve the “money” issue. Still, she understood that transforming Swampert

on, “I saw in the news that the government plans to build new roads to improve transportation in the village. They’re also

“Sort of.

a smile.

rubbed his

IT

1/3

Chapter 0899

+25 BONUS

Jefferson, have you had dinner?”

Paul nodded. “I did.”

you mind having a late–night snack?”

eyes lit up. “Is

that’s what you think, then yes.” She took the shopping

her and slipped off his shoes by the door like it was

again, they cooked, ate, and

leaving, he asked, “Are you heading

Miranda nodded. “Yes.”

there

“Sure.”

orange juice and toast. When they were about to leave, she handed him a portion. “Breakfast for

“Thanks,” he replied.

garage

not far from Easternia.

“Sure,” Miranda agreed.