Chapter 538
Chapter 538:
The family’s overt concern for Brenna’s ventures was evident. Shepard even proposed reallocating the Harper Group’s assets to support her. Amidst this, Rosie’s growing displeasure went unnoticed, leaving her feeling deeply frustrated.
At the military residential complex, Ethan steered his opulent Rolls-Royce to a stop at the gate, his expression one of resignation.
With a practiced hand, he adjusted his silk tie in the reflection of the rearview mirror, meticulously checking his appearance. Carefully, he gathered a bouquet of delicate blue lisianthus and several neatly wrapped paper bags from the passenger seat before stepping out.
The Rolls-Royce, with its imposing presence and gleaming finish, was a rare sight at the complex. Ethan’s family generally shunned such ostentatious displays of wealth, compelling him to reserve the car for special occasions only. Yet today…
At Elsa’s insistent request, he had driven the luxury vehicle over, puzzled by her unusual demands for both the car and an assortment of gifts.
A few days ago, he had upset Elsa during Amy’s birthday celebration, and upon returning home, he had further angered her. He had been contemplating how to make amends.
Now, with a chance to mend fences handed to him, he was eager to seize it, despite finding the situation bewildering.
His parents, typically indifferent to such gestures, had expressed a specific desire for flowers and sweets today. To ensure he chose appropriately, Ethan had personally visited a local florist, engaging closely with the staff to select the perfect lisianthus.
The desserts posed a greater challenge. Uncertain of his parents’ preferences, he had relied on the recommendations of the dessert shop staff, choosing an array of treats that leaned toward the less sugary—mindful of what might appeal to an older palate. His selections were lavish: a hundred-dollar assortment of gourmet cookies, slices of rich cake, decadent chocolate cookies, and a variety of desserts designed to tantalize the taste buds with unfamiliar flavors.
With everything in hand, Ethan approached the house. He paused momentarily at the doorway, gathering his thoughts before calling out loudly, “Mom, Dad, I’m back p>
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Usually, his parents wouldn’t come out to greet him, but today, Elsa appeared at the door, her face beaming with a smile—so unlike her usual exasperated expression when she saw him.
Elsa was adorned in a dress that draped elegantly around her.
“Mom, what’s the occasion today? And that dress! You look absolutely stunning; takes ten years off, easily,” Ethan said, his words dripping with genuine admiration and a hint of playful charm.
When Ethan stepped inside, his gaze fell upon a young woman sitting by the living room sofa. She wore a modest beige dress, her appearance enhanced by subtle makeup and a touch of lipstick, exuding a quiet beauty.
She offered Ethan a polite smile, her voice soft yet clear. “Nice to meet you, Mr. Mitchell p>
Ethan noticed the admiration and surprise in her eyes.
His instinctual smile faded into a more guarded, cool expression. “Hi,” he responded, his tone clipped.