?Chapter 1646:


    The Wade family stared at Christina’s panicked, teary-eyed face, unable to determine whether ruining the dishes had been intentional. By her expression alone, it didn’t seem like an act. They hadn’t even managed a proper bite before the entire meal was destroyed, and though fury simmered within them, none of it could be directed at Christina.


    After all, she was the Jones family’s treasured heiress — not yet Jaxen’s wife. The performance had to continue. Once she married Jaxen and their interests aligned, she would naturally prioritize the Wade family and draw benefits from the Joneses. Besides, the aphrodisiac incense had already been lit, and it would simply take time to take effect. A nce at the clock confirmed it hadn’t worked yet. Provoking her now would be a serious mistake.


    Zahir’s mouth twitched before he forced his expression into something passably pleasant. He set his utensils aside and spoke with feigned warmth. “Why would we me you? I’ll have the servants prepare another meal. There’s nothing to worry about — don’t feel guilty. Just treat this ce like your own.”


    Marsha followed with a smile. “That’s right. Zahir and I already think of you as family. This won’t be held against you.”


    “You’re all being so good to me…” Christina’s voice wavered, her expression filling with gratitude. “I made such a mess, and you still forgive me.”


    “Bonnie, it’s really nothing. Don’t dwell on it,” La said reassuringly.


    “Alright.” Christina nodded. “La, you’ve been so kind to me as well. I hope we can truly be family one day.”


    The Wade family felt a surge of excitement they struggled to suppress. Christina still caught the brief sh of naked greed in their eyes.


    A faint blush crept onto La’s face as she lowered her voice. “Could you put in a good word for me with Bain?”


    “Of course!” Christina swallowed a sneer and put on an eager expression. “You’re wonderful — if you married Bain, we really would be family.”


    La’s face lit up with delight. “I’m not that wonderful,” she replied shyly.


    “You really are. All of you are,” Christina said sweetly, deception woven into every word.


    ?????????????????? ???????? ???? ???????? g???????ν??????????????


    “Bonnie, why don’t you rest in the living room?” Jaxen said. “I’ll have the servants prepare another meal for you.”


    “Bonnie, what would you like to eat? Just name it and we’ll have it made,” La added eagerly. Since Christina had promised to help her with Bain, it only made sense to keep her happy.


    “May I choose the dishes myself?” Christina asked.


    “Of course,” La answered instantly.


    Christina nced around, as if gauging their sincerity.


    “Bonnie, order whatever you like, as long as the chef can make it,” Marsha said warmly.


    “Treat yourself — anything you want,” Zahir added with an affable smile.


    “But I’d really love some home-cooked food,” Christina said, a hint of shyness in her tone. “I adore the dishes my own family makes.”


    “That’s no trouble at all,” Zahir replied at once. “This is your home too, and we’re your family. We’ll cook something special for you ourselves.” To keep Christina there and ensure she spoke well of La to Bain, every member of the Wade family agreed to prepare the meal personally.


    “Then…” Christina paused briefly before beginning to list her requests.


    .


    .


    .