Chickens, ducks, and geese were all freshly butchered for the feast. Easton had already arranged for two pigs to be prepared half a month ago, and now, fragrant cured bacon and sausages were smoking over the fire.
The kitchen was equipped with a gas stove for convenience.
It was the first time Janina had experienced such a lively New Year celebration, and it filled her heart with warmth.
The Holt family was large, so they had a custom-made, oversized round table that could seat twenty people.
After dinner, Summer stopped by with some homemade sausages and Deviled Eggs.
"Come in, have a seat," Grace said, inviting Summer inside. The family had just finished tidying up and were now gathered around the fire, creating a lively scene.
When Summer caught a glimpse of a tall figure emerging from the kitchen, she instinctively took a step back and waved her hand politely. "Mrs. Holt, I won't stay. I have to get back and help."
Grace, who had a real fondness for Summer—finding her beautiful, kind, and considerate—insisted warmly. "You should all come over tomorrow for New Year's dinner with us. You're Nina's friend and our neighbor. We should celebrate together! It'll be more festive."
"Oh, well… Mrs. Holt…" Summer was caught off guard by the swift invitation. She didn't know how to respond. It felt rude to refuse such a warm offer, but accepting felt improper. Who spends New Year's at someone else's house?
After a moment's thought, Summer politely declined. "Thank you for the kind offer, Mrs. Holt, but my parents have already prepared everything. I'll come over on New Year's Day to give you my greetings."
Grace was about to say more, but Summer cut in. "Goodbye, Mrs. Holt!" she said, then practically fled.
"Whatever you all want. I have no opinion," Easton replied noncommittally.
Grace shot Easton a disapproving look. "Why are you so unenthusiastic? You and Fairchild are always mooching meals at Summer's house. As a grown man, you should be ashamed of yourself. You owe them, and you need to repay that kindness."
At that, Grace's eyes suddenly lit up. "Hey, you're coming with me to their house later to convince her parents. You have to learn to be grateful, you blockhead. No wonder…"
Grace glared at Easton, exasperated. She felt her eldest son was emotionally stunted and wondered what kind of wife he would ever find. If he kept acting like this, no woman would want him.
Easton rubbed his forehead. "Mom, you can go. I still have things to do."

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Abandoned by All I Took It All Back
This girl Marjorie is one sick individual! I hope she gets what she deserves!...
Curious, all of the other books get updated timely except for this one. Why?...
When are the rest of the chapters going to be published?...