When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0900

Miranda began, “Grandma, I-”

“Aren, can you keep an eye on the fire for me? It’s been stewing for three hours, and I just need this last touch. Make sure it’s perfect, okay? It’s too noisy here, so I’m going out to talk to Mimi.”

It sounded like Fiona had walked into the living room since the noise of the range hood faded away.

She continued, “Mimi, can you hear me now? What did you say earlier?”

Miranda replied, “It’s nothing… I’ll be there on time. Thanks for making all this delicious food, Grandma.”

“It’s not a big deal!” Fiona cheerfully ended the call and returned to the kitchen.

Once she hung up, Miranda quickly called Paul. It was still early, so she figured he hadn’t left yet.

After two rings, he answered, “Miranda?”

“Dr. Jefferson, I’m sorry, but today-”

Before she could finish, her tablet pinged with a notification for an access request. The screen showed footage from the front door camera–who else was it but Paul?

outside. Did you get

aback and hadn’t expected him to arrive

walked in, he noticed she wasn’t around, and her lab

said, “I’m so sorry, Dr.

Why are you apologizing?” he asked,

forgot I promised my grandma I’d go home for lunch today. I’m really sorry to bail on you. I was going to call

paused momentarily, then said, “It’s not a big deal. You don’t have to apologize like that. Go

he had canceled lunch with colleagues and friends just to have lunch with

you join me for lunch at

Aren and Fiona knew Paul and liked him. Miranda

1/2

Chapter 0900

+25 BONUS

appropriate,” Paul replied. He wondered if it would be alright for a stranger to join a family

realized this was the perfect solution–a win–win situation. “Alright. It’s

“Well, I’ll go with you to visit your grandparents.

the two were about to leave, they suddenly bumped into Joli, who was walking out

felt like he was gliding rather than walking. With dark circles under his eyes, he looked

second. Then, he quickly greeted

but Miranda stared at Joli as she