My Mirror Image by Maybe Not (Candice And Alex’s) novel Chapter 308

Alex spoke with an enigmatic tone.

With her lips pursed, Candice chose to stay silent.

Candice had recalled the old man’s particular liking for irises, a sentiment more deeply rooted in Alex's grandmother's affection for the same flowers. Shawn's yard was lush with irises, some of which Alex and Candice had planted together. It was why she had gone along with Yana’s dress suggestion.

But there was a point where Alex had been mistaken.

She looked steadily at Alex. "If it matters so much to you, why not reclaim that emerald set for your grandfather?"

A fleeting emotion briefly darted across Alex's gaze before he dismissed the concern with an indifferent tone. "What does it have to do with me?" He made his way into the hall.

-

The moment Alex appeared, Shawn's frown softened. Noticing the iris adornment on Alex's chest, Shawn's demeanor warmed. "If your grandmother was still alive, she would be very proud,” he said nostalgically. “You were always her favorite."

Alex listened silently and did not say a word.

Candice entered just as the banquet was about to begin.

Old Mr. Elysian took his place at the head of the table and gestured toward Candice, inviting her. "Candy, come sit here."

Candice scanned the seating arrangement, noting Helen and Daniel to the old man’s right and Alex to his left, with an open seat next to him that seemed less than appealing to her.

Hesitating, she glanced toward Jackson and opted for a different spot."I think I'll sit over here instead."

Shawn's scowled disappointment. "You don't want to dine with me?"

His words put Candice in a dilemma.

Just as Candice was about to respond, Alex's phone interrupted the moment.

Alex took the call without showing any emotion. Shortly after, he stood up and got ready to leave without revealing the contents of the chat.

Shawn's voice carried a hint of authority. "And where might you be heading?"

Alex momentarily stopped, stating, "There are some issues I need to handle."

Though Shawn had clearly shown his displeasure, his opportunity to express further discontent was lost as Alex departed.

Shawn suppressed his emotion and turned to Candice. "Now that the rascal's left, why don't you come and sit by me?"

Recognizing the old man’s frustration, Candice grudgingly took the seat next to him, not wanting to spoil his birthday.

His demeanor softened, and he appreciated her compliance. "You're always sensible."

Candice spoke in a soft tone, offering some reassuring words. She eventually managed to raise Shawn's spirits again.

Alex returned. He did not return alone, Sonia trailed him.

Sonia's appearance was notably disheveled, her once elegant pink cocktail dress now stained and dirty. She followed closely behind Alex, clutching a gift bag in her hand.

Upon making her entrance, her eyes immediately found Candice.

Her expression briefly registered shock before she quickly looked away, attempting to mask her emotions while her hold on the gift bag grew tighter.