Chapter 547
In this new environment, even in Eileen’s embrace, Gabriela remained alert.
Her eyes darted around, resisting Stella’s attempt to hold her.
She kicked her legs and clung tightly to Eileen’s clothes.
“She’s probably scared because she doesn’t know me,” Stella said, withdrawing her hands and not pushing further. “Come inside first. She’ll get used to me and the new environment later.”
Eileen and Bryan entered, and the air inside was filled with the smell of delicious food.
Seeing the busy kitchen, Eileen knew the meal wasn’t ready yet.
Stella led them to the living room, where a deep red, antique-looking book with gold borders lay on the coffee table.
Stella opened it and flipped through the pages, documenting the recent generations of the Dawson family.
“I believe today is the perfect time for this. Although it’s sudden, let’s officially include Gabriela and Eileen in the family tree,” she said.
Stella had already informed the other branches of the Dawson family about this.
Originally, she had envisioned a grand ceremony to mark the greatest celebration for the Dawson family in many years.
But the news that Bryan was bringing Eileen and Gabriela over today had spurred her to act immediately.
Bryan’s expression grew serious, his thin lips slightly parting. “This feels hasty. Let’s pick another day.”
“When did you start caring about that?” Stella’s smile disappeared. “Can’t we hold a proper ceremony later to make up for it?”
Eileen was taken aback by Bryan’s refusal of Stella’s proposal.
Stella watched, her lips pressed together, as Bryan said, “Let’s choose another day. I will personally select a suitable date to include them in the family tree.”
His stubborn refusal irritated Stella. “I’ve already notified the family branches. You can’t just say no now!”
“Grandma, Gabriela’s last name is Curtis now. Do you intend to list her as Gabriela Curtis in our family tree?” Bryan asked.
Stella replied, “Of course not. Didn’t you tell me you also named her Athena? I think Athena Dawson has a lovely ring to it.”
Bryan countered, “It’s strange if her surname in the family tree doesn’t match her legal documents.”
“Then…” Stella paused, glancing at Eileen.
Considering a change of surnames?
Stella continued, “Eileen, a surname is merely a label. What are your thoughts?” Her tone was inquisitive.
Eileen started to frown and was about to speak when Bryan interjected, “Grandma, Eileen and I have already discussed this. Our next child, regardless of their gender, will carry the Dawson surname. Let’s include them in the family tree then.”
Bryan didn’t want to change Gabriela’s surname now.