Betrayed and Dumped: She Rose Stronger Than Ever novel Chapter 284

Samantha finally relaxed. “That’s good to hear.”

She finished slicing the fruit and arranged it neatly on a plate, then shot her daughter a look. “Go and give this to Paul, and remember to be a good host. Don’t ignore our guest.”

Rebecca took a deep breath and carried the fruit platter out to the living room, setting it down right in front of Paul.

Paul didn’t hesitate at all. He picked up a fork, stabbed a strawberry, and took a bite. He nodded, smiling. “It’s really sweet.”

Rebecca had no idea what to say to him. Instead of forcing some awkward small talk, she grabbed the remote and turned on the TV, flipping through the channels.

She glanced over at him. “What do you like to watch? Reality shows, movies, dramas, or something else?”

Paul looked at her, his eyes curious. “What do you like?”

Seriously? She asked him first, and he just turned it back on her.

But remembering her mom’s endless reminders to be polite and welcoming, Rebecca thought about it and said, “I usually watch stand-up comedy.”

Paul smiled. “Yeah, I like that too.”

So Rebecca pulled up her favorite comedy show and settled in. Being at home and watching something she loved, she quickly let her guard down. Soon she was laughing out loud at the comedian’s punchlines, totally at ease.

It was such a different side of her compared to how she acted outside.

Paul watched her with a growing smile, taking in how relaxed and genuine she was. He liked seeing her like this, full of energy and life.

It felt special. Only he ever got to see this version of Rebecca. She only acted this way around him. Wasn’t that its own kind of connection?

Rebecca got so caught up in the show that she didn’t even hear her mom calling for her to bring out the rice.

When she finally noticed Paul coming out of the kitchen, carrying two bowls, she realized she’d totally forgotten her hosting duties.

Before her mom could send another icy glare, Rebecca rushed into the kitchen, grabbed the plate, and hurried back out.

At the dinner table, her mom was the perfect hostess, constantly giving Rebecca meaningful looks.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify