It had been a long time since Mnie and Eugene had anything to do with each other. Allowing him to rest here was already generous of her. There was no need for him to stay the night.


    Mnie’s attitude was firm. She turned to look at Eugene and was ready to speak, only to meet his dark, misty eyes.


    Perhaps because he had just woken up, Eugene’s eyes looked gentler. They shone more than usual, looking less oppressive.


    Mnie gazed at him. “It’s alreadyte. You can leave now.<i>” </i>


    Eugene lowered his gaze, looked at his phone, and murmured, “Mm.”


    After seeing Eugene off, Mnie looked back at the dining table. It was neatly organized, except for a USB sh drive in the corner.


    The sh drive bore the logo of LeapCo, which likely contained something important.


    Mnie snapped a photo and sent it to Eugene. He responded the following day, saying he woulde to pick it up today.


    Today, the atmosphere was lively. The neighborhood was filled with more children than usual, along with peopleing and going to celebrate the asion.


    The living room window faced the road outside. Mnie sat in the living room by the window, responding to various well wishes.


    Aware of her situation, Stephen asked if she wanted to spend Christmas at his house, but Mnie rejected.


    Liana had already said she was taking Xander to their grandfather’s house for Christmas.


    Yvette happily posted a video on Facebook showcasing her family’s Christmas Eve.


    Everyone seemed joyous. Mnie cleaned the photos of her grandparents and bought groceries to make the food that they loved.


    Although her culinary skills were average, she had plenty of time to experiment and learn today. She spent the whole afternoon preparing four dishes.


    As dusk fell<b>, </b>she saw the outside light up with countless lights. Mnie, holding a spoon<b>, </b>froze.


    The TV in the living room started its festive programs. Mnie stood in the kitchen. Only a dim light illuminated the surroundings above her.


    She looked at her spoon and pursed her lips slowly. Her hands could not stop trembling.


    Someone was singing Christmas carols outside, making the night scenery feel more vibrant. Almost at the same time, a knock on the door interrupted Mnie’s thoughts.


    212


    Putting down the spoon<b>, </b>she went to answer the door. Eugene stood outside in the cold.


    “I’vee to get the USB sh drive,” he said. His gaze passed over Mnie andnded on the Christmas dinner on the table behind her. He entered the room after he spoke.


    Mnie turned around and handed him the USB sh drive. Before she could speak, she heard Eugene say with a hint <b>of </b>surprise, “When did your cooking skills be so good?”


    She had prepared four dishes, but they were already a bit cold after all this time.


    Eugene sat down directly at the table, lowering his head for a moment. His fingertips tapped on the table, and his tone sounded fatigued. “I’ve been going to various business gatherings in the past few days. Mind if I hide out here for some time?”


    Perhaps because of the Christmas carols, the house felt even emptier.


    For the first time, Mnie did not refuse Eugene.


    However, the Christmas dinner was not peaceful either. Eugene’s phone had been ringing since he sat down, all calls from Cedric.