I Walked Away Seven Years Too Late But Right on Time novel Chapter 231

Gavin was looking over some reports in the study when Sophie shoved her phone screen in his face. "Rosemary misses you."

On the screen, Rosemary took a step back from the camera to show off her new outfit. "How does the dress look, Gavin?"

"Stunning. You look like you just walked off the set of The Great Gatsby."

"Your mother-in-law made it for me. It's my New Year's present."

Rosemary beamed like a kid on Christmas. She grabbed Sarah by the arm, pulling her into the frame. Standing side-by-side, one wore a sapphire Vintage Velvet High-Slit Gown, and the other wore a striking plum silk dress embroidered with magnolias. One smiled with radiant confidence; the other smiled with gentle shyness.

"You both look incredible. Rosemary, you and Sarah look more like mother and daughter than you and my mom."

"I suppose so. Your mother is always storming around like a hurricane. She doesn't take after me at all."

With Gillian safely out of earshot, the two of them shamelessly roasted her.

"Mom, you have to make me a traditional robe, too. Let's do a full matching aesthetic for the holidays."

Gavin boldly demanded a gift from his mother-in-law.

"Of course! I'll make one for your dad, too," Sarah agreed happily.

She had finally found her true passion. Back when she owned the curtain shop, she had always loved taking fabric scraps and transforming them into beautiful cushions or intricate tablecloths.

Right before the wedding, Sophie had taken Sarah to a legendary bespoke tailor. Sarah had fallen completely in love with the craft, practically begging to become an apprentice. Now, she spent her free time perfecting her stitching at home.

When the weather turned freezing in October, Rosemary planned a long vacation to the Bahamas. Sophie and Gavin immediately arranged for Sarah to join her.

The two women kept each other company, bonded over their shared hobbies, and were having the time of their lives.

Hanging up the video call, Sophie pinched Gavin's cheek. "You are completely shameless. Who just demands gifts like that? Aren't you worried about stressing my mom out?"

"She was thrilled. The greatest comfort for a parent is knowing they are still needed."

Gavin pulled her onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her waist.

Sophie rolled her eyes. He was giving her mother extra work, and somehow making himself sound like a saint.

"I'm serious. If you need something, ask her. It gives her purpose. You two are so polite with each other it's painful. She's terrified of being a burden, and you're terrified of tiring her out. You don't act like family."

Sophie went quiet, mulling over his words. He was absolutely right.

"I never realized you were such a raging narcissist," Sophie teased. He couldn't even compliment her without patting himself on the back.

"My obsession with you vastly outweighs my narcissism," Gavin replied smoothly, never missing a beat.

Two weeks later, during the winter holidays, Sophie and Gavin flew out of Seattle, heading straight for the Bahamas. Gillian and Graham met them there, reuniting the entire family under the sun.

Gavin had booked a professional photographer online for their annual family portrait. This year, the frame finally included Sarah and Sophie.

In the photo, the four women looked breathtaking in their elegant velvet gowns, while Graham and Gavin wore sharp traditional robes, giving the picture a timeless, classic feel.

"Next year, the picture will be absolutely perfect once we add a little baby."

Rosemary stared at the freshly printed photograph, her heart overflowing with joy.

"Did you hear that? That's your grandmother's ultimate wish. Pick up the pace," Gillian muttered into Gavin's ear.

Gavin put a finger to his lips, shushing her. "Back off. We're letting nature take its course."

Gillian's gaze darted to Sophie's stomach before she leaned back toward Gavin. "I know you kids want to travel and enjoy yourselves before getting tied down. I'm not pushing you, but you need to consider the older generation."