We retraced our steps back to Wood Manor, where Kenney Damon was engaged in an animated conversation with my Dad. As we entered, he looked up in surprise. "Back already?"
"Something unexpected has come up, so we decided to head back early!" I greeted Kenney, who, seeing our return, rose to bid us farewell. My dad didn't protest, allowing him to leave as he pleased.
As I escorted Kenney to his car, he waived me back and advised me before leaving, "Stick close to Catherine, and keep encouraging her. It’s time for her to get a reliable man, and as long as the guy genuinely cares for her, we don't care about his family background. The Damon family can afford to marry off a daughter! She shouldn't feel any burden!”
I chuckled and replied, “Sure. I'll push her!”
But in my heart, I couldn't help but grumble. “Poor Catherine, you’re causing your old man such heartache!”
If she kept ignoring her father's heartfelt advice, she would be downright disrespectful!
“Thanks for taking care of this for me. She gets annoyed whenever we bring it up. If we push too hard, she might run off!” Kenney sighed, shaking his head in frustration. “It's so difficult to see her! We've got all the boys at home, but our only girl has flown off to who knows where!”
“Leave it to me!” I promised, taking the responsibility off his shoulders, “Mission accepted!”
It perked Kenney up. With a grateful gesture, he turned and left.
Back to the parlor, I saw my dad was discussing something with Ronan. Both wearing serious expressions, Ronan nodded frequently.
“Weren't we supposed to have dinner here? How are we going to do that?” I asked, spreading my hands, “Or should we head back to our old place?”
“Back to the old place!” my dad declared decisively.
I glanced at Ronan, who didn't offer any objection. It seemed like they were in sync, and I wondered how long they had been confiding in each other.
“Did you tell Mom about it? Or should I go ahead and let her know?” I asked, looking at my dad.
“I've already informed her! Your mom and I understand each other with just a look!”
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