Cole snapped back to reality, smiling slightly as he spoke, "Dad, Mom, why didn’t you give me a heads-up you were coming? I could’ve picked you up from the station."
The room's atmosphere subtly shifted as everyone turned their attention towards Cole’s words.
The old man shot him a glare, dissatisfaction written all over his face, "What, do I need to file a report just to visit my grandson now?"
"Dad, that's not what I meant. Please, come in," Cole replied with an awkward laugh.
He stepped aside to let them in, turning to Claire behind him, "Claire, these are Craig’s grandparents, his uncle, and his cousin."
Claire felt a bit uncomfortable but tried to stay composed, smiling and greeting her former in-laws and brother-in-law.
The grandmother gave Claire a cold look without speaking.
Sensing the tension, Cole tried to steer the conversation towards Craig, but the old man wasn’t ready to let it go. He bluntly asked, "Cole, we heard you got remarried. Is that true?"
Cole nodded, replying honestly, "Yes, Dad. Claire and I are married now."
The grandmother immediately interjected, "How could you do this? Are you being fair to my daughter?"
Her gaze swept over Claire with scrutiny and displeasure.
Cole’s expression darkened; he knew this issue couldn’t be avoided.
He firmly said, "Mom, I know it’s hard for you, and it’s hard for me too. But life has to go on. Claire and I truly love each other, and she’s been wonderful to both me and Craig. I hope you can accept her and give us a chance to start anew."
The grandmother didn’t respond immediately; instead, she sat down on the couch, her gaze piercing Cole as she coldly asked, "When my daughter left, you promised to support us. Does that still stand?"
Cole met her gaze without flinching, nodding earnestly, "Mom, I will keep my promises. I will support you on behalf of Craig’s mom."
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