I Walked Away Seven Years Too Late But Right on Time novel Chapter 114

"Gavin must have helped you choose," Rosemary said with a smile. "Pearls are my absolute favorite."

She immediately asked Sophie to help pin it onto her dress.

Noticing the blindingly expensive diamond tennis bracelet on Rosemary's wrist, Sophie suddenly felt her gift was woefully inadequate.

"Such a beautiful girl, and with such elegant hands," Rosemary praised, clasping Sophie's hands and pulling her up.

She guided Sophie toward the dining room with effortless warmth. "You must be starving. We've been holding lunch for you."

Sophie felt a rush of gratitude. Rosemary had likely sensed her insecurity and went out of her way to make her feel valued.

The housekeeper quickly served the meal, and Gillian enthusiastically encouraged Sophie to dig in.

"Gavin mentioned you love baked sea bass. Let's see if my recipe lives up to your standards."

Sophie took a bite and nodded genuinely. "It's delicious."

"He also told us you're an amazing cook. He actually learned to make spaghetti from you. There was a week when our housekeeper took time off, and I begged him to cook for me. He flat-out refused."

"Mom," Gavin warned.

Gillian ignored him completely, laughing at his flush of embarrassment. "The double standards between his mother and his girlfriend are staggering."

"Dad, Mom is dropping hints that you need to cook her a romantic dinner," Gavin countered smoothly.

The lighthearted banter eased the tension in Sophie's chest. The meal was quiet but entirely comfortable.

Afterward, they moved to the living room for tea. The harsh interrogation Sophie had dreaded never materialized. Instead, Graham seemed genuinely interested in her career trajectory.

He looked mildly surprised to hear she was an assistant analyst but didn't pry.

"I worked as an executive assistant for a few years after graduation and only transitioned back to my major earlier this year," Sophie explained honestly.

"Don't mind him, Sophie. Every time a young person visits, Graham interrogates them about their five-year plans and career aspirations."

Gillian laughed, leaning in to whisper, "It's an occupational hazard."

Sophie hadn't expected Gillian to be so playful and down-to-earth. The intimidating CEO facade completely vanished, replaced by an inviting warmth.

She offered Gillian a grateful smile, feeling an undeniable sense of closeness.

The heavy stone in her stomach finally crumbled.

When she caught Gavin's eye, she gave him a genuine smile—her first since Mark had picked them up at the airport.

After a while, Rosemary excused herself for an afternoon nap.

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