Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan) novel Chapter 353

I hurriedly rose to make room for her at the table, and she didn't hesitate, washing her hands and sliding into the seat with an air of familiarity.

Dad beamed at her, his warm gaze a reflection of the familial comfort. "You girls coming back home together is such a rare sight these days. Lord knows, I could count your visits on one hand over the last few years."

Catherine, ever the one to stir the pot, quipped, "Well, if it wasn't for Allie's mysterious ailments keeping her off the grid, how could I possibly make plans to return with her?"

Her words seemed to strike a nerve, as Jaylan’s face twitched, his expression souring.

But Catherine paid his grimace no mind, continuing unabashedly, "I only found out last night that Allie was coming back to Silverdale City today, so I shifted my work schedule around just to make it for dinner. And it's not just for the pleasure of your company—there's some business to attend to!"

"Have you made it home yet?" Dad inquired, a touch of concern in his voice. "Your father doesn't even know you're back, does he?"

"I was just too eager to get a bite of this feast! Besides," she turned to Dad with a mischievous glint in her eye, "Galen, I'm here to cozy up to you, after all!"

Without waiting for an invitation, Catherine grabbed a fork and dove into the meal before her, savoring a mouthful of Mom's cooking with sheer delight. She complimented with gusto, "My queen, no one cooks like you. I haven't had a meal this delicious in ages. Truth be told, the moment I heard Allie was coming back, I knew I had to be here to snag a seat at this table. Perfect timing!"

Jaylan looked on with thinly veiled disdain.

Mom simply responded with a kind smile, heaping more food onto Catherine’s plate. "Then eat up, dear! Help yourself to as much as you like."

Catherine indulged heartily, praising the food with no care for decorum, while Jaylan's contempt grew ever clearer.

Clearly, Catherine had stolen his spotlight.

"Galen, about the business matter I mentioned. It involves you," Catherine said between bites.

"Oh? Your work... How can I assist?" Dad asked, curiosity piqued.

"The company's got a big promotional project in the works, a tribute piece following the ambassador's international tour."

I rolled my eyes and said, "Dad, she lives next door!"

Laughter filled the room, but looking at Jaylan, I noticed his previous scorn had vanished, replaced by a radiant optimism. He wasn't a fool. He understood the potential windfall this project could bring.

After the meal, Dad eagerly pulled Catherine aside to discuss the plans, and of course, Jaylan wasn’t about to miss out on the opportunity, sticking close as they headed to the study.

I knew what he was up to. He was sizing up the proverbial bread that might come from such a promotion.

I snorted. No matter how grand the profit, it had nothing to do with him.

Whether it was Silverdale City or Goldenvale Town, the spoils would be unattainable Jaylan. He might salivate over it, but he would never get a taste.

Watching them dash off to the study, I didn't follow. Instead, I gave Catherine a playful nudge and quietly excused myself with Mom before slipping out the door.