Chapter 456
Skylar was used to Joe always having the upper hand in such matters.
Just then, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Janine. She told Joe, “My mom requested that I return home because Steven will be bringing his girlfriend over, so I might
be back late today.”
It was quite unexpected. Just a few days ago, Steven mentioned his girlfriend was too busy, but today she suddenly found time.
From the outset, Skylar had been curious about Steven’s girlfriend.
Skylar had a free afternoon and planned to meet Natalie. When she found out about Austin’s movie premiere that day, Skylar eagerly accepted Natalie’s invitation to join them
at the event.
“It’s alright. I have a busy day ahead of me to,” Skylar replied.
They both juggled demanding schedules.
After breakfast, Skylar packed her things and headed out. Joe left about half an hour later.
Skylar found herself at the grocery store an hour later. She stocked up on Janine and
Steven’s favorite foods.
She arrived early to help Janine prepare dinner. Janine, thrilled about Steven’s girlfriend
coming over for the first time, insisted on making at least ten dishes.
In their culture, ten symbolizes completeness and perfection. Janine hoped Steven’s
girlfriend would have a positive impression of her future mother–in–law.
Skylar worried Janine would overexert herself. Thankfully, they both knew their way around the kitchen–Skylar’s culinary skills were honed under Janine’s watchful eye. Working together, they managed to prepare all ten dishes before their guests arrived.
Skylar finished setting the table and washed and sliced the fruit she’d bought. She also laid
out some cookies, a treat most girls enjoyed.
By the time she finished, it was almost time. As a knock echoed through the house, Skylar was in the kitchen, rinsing dishes. “Mom, I think that’s them at the door,” she called out to
Janine:
“I’ll get it!” Janine hurriedly changed into a new outfit and answered the door. She was
more nervous than she’d been during her first meeting with Finn.
Janine opened the door with a warm smile.
“Hello, Mrs. Sullivan,” Annie greeted warmly.
Steven, gesturing toward Annie, introduced his girlfriend to Janine. “Mom, this is my girlfriend, Annie Silver.”
“Lovely to meet you, Annie. Please, come in and make yourself at home. Don’t be shy.” Janine invited her in hospitably.
As Annie changed into slippers and stepped inside, she gave the house a quick but discreet scan. It was clean and tidy, just as Steven had mentioned.
The table overflowing with food and the fruit and cookies on the coffee table spoke
volumes about Janine’s efforts.
A noise from the kitchen caught Annie’s attention.
Steven followed her gaze and saw Skylar washing dishes. “That’s my sister, Skylar,” he said with a smile.
Annie’s eyes flickered for a moment before she smiled and nodded in acknowledgment.
Skylar finished washing the dishes, dried her hands, and took off her apron. Now that she was done with her chores, she could finally meet Steven’s girlfriend.”
As she walked out of the kitchen, her smile faltered slightly when she saw Annie sitting with Steven. She couldn’t believe that Annie was Steven’s girlfriend.
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