Asher noted the rare solemnity in his father’s voice and, without further thought, nodded in agreement.


    “Alright.”


    Niki then turned to James, addressing him with a respectful nod, “Mr. James, Ms. Mirabe, do drop by the Reeves residence when you have a moment. Got some family matters to attend to, so I’ll be off.” With that


    that, Niki didn’t wait for James and Mirabe to respond and hurried away.


    Mirabe watched Niki’s retreating figure for a few seconds before her gaze drifted away. Vincent, who had been sitting beside her, didn’t leave. Instead, he kept the conversation going about the mathpetition, “You know, Mirabe, thatpetition…”


    He trailed off, then looked up, his handsome face showing a touch of confusion. James seemed to be watching him with a strange intensity.


    Not knowing James well enough to inquire directly, Vincent simply nodded politely when their eyes


    James hardly touched his food, focusing instead on helping Mirabe with hers. He nodded back at Vincent, his movements smooth and practiced as if it was second nature to him.


    met.


    Noticing this, a hint of surprise crossed Vincent’s eyes, and now he found himself curious about the rtionship between Mira <b>and </b>this enigmatic guest.


    Just then, the birthday boy Knox approached, with Vincent’s mother Aimee trailing behind him. Knox took a seat next to James, James, we’ve had quite the turnout today. I hope we haven’t neglected you.”


    James‘ lips curved ever so slightly, his handsome face polite. “You’re too kind, Knox.”


    Knox chuckled and pointed to Vincent. “This is my good–for–nothing grandson, Vincent. He prepared today’s meal. How is it? To your <b>liking</b>?”


    Cued, Vincent thought, “Heh, so Grandpa tells outsiders I’m good–for–nothing<i>> </i>


    nce at his grandfather, momentarily questioning their blood rtion.


    “It’s quite good,” James responded, his tone neutral.


    Vincent cast a silent


    “I’ve tried to teach the boy how to cook, but he just doesn’t take it. Otherwise, his skills would be even better,” Knox said, seemingly critical of his grandson but clearly proud.


    James nodded, picking up his cup for a sip.


    Aimee, witnessing James for the first time, was struck by his appearance and presence, yet her attention was drawn more to Mirabe. The young girl was exceptionally pretty, especially her bright <b>and </b>intelligent eyes, which hinted at her well–mannered nature.


    Women often felt an additional affinity for beauty, and Aimee was no exception. But after a few more nces, she felt a strange familiarity in the child’s features, as if she’d seen her somewhere before, yet <b>she </b>was sure their paths had never crossed,


    Mirabe, sensing Aimee’s gaze, looked up. “Good evening.” At over forty, Aimee retained a youthful elegance, her skin well–maintained, and she could easily pass for someone in her thirties.


    Aimee’s train of thought was interrupted by Mirabe’s voice.