Reborn Without You (Amelia and Christopher) novel Chapter 32

Chapter 32

Christopher’s sudden invitation caught Evelyn off guard.

He had never once asked her to ride with him before.

He probably thought she would say yes.

But the next second, Evelyn yanked open the back door of Amelia’s car and climbed right in. “I don’t want to ride in your car, Uncle Chris.”

Christopher’s expression tightened almost imperceptibly. Just as he was about to speak, Nicole appeared with Nathan in tow.

“Daddy, what are you talking about with them?” Nathan called out loudly.

The sight of the pair was enough to sour Amelia’s mood. With a sharp pull, she opened the driver’s side door and

drove off without another word.

In the rearview mirror, Evelyn caught a glimpse of the three of them together, looking for all the world like a happy little family.

She pursed her lips and turned away.

Amelia noticed the shift in her daughter’s mood. She glanced at the mirror, then sneered.

Christopher’s offer had been nothing more than a whim. The moment Nathan and Nicole arrived, his attention was entirely focused on them.

She softened her voice and comforted Evelyn. “Sweetie, even if your father doesn’t love you, don’t be sad. There are plenty of people in this world who do.”

Evelyn nodded. “I know, Mommy.”

Soon, Amelia pulled up at Whitmore Manor.

Nestled in the mountains, the Zephyr family home carried the weight of history. For over a century, they had been a house of scholars turned merchants, excelling in everything they touched.

Every corner of the manor reflected the elegance and stature of a distinguished household.

Dorothy lived in the back courtyard, separate from the main house. She preferred her peace and quiet, far from the bustle of the main wing.

Amelia parked directly in the back. She had no desire to run into the Zephyr relatives she would rather avoid.

“Amelia?” A voice called her name.

It was Stephanie Zephyr.

Amelia froze. The more she tried to avoid them, the more fate seemed determined to throw them in her path.

Chapter 32

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“Hello, Aunt Stephanie,” Evelyn said politely.

Stephanie glanced at her niece but didn’t bother responding. She looked straight at Amella and said, “Perfect timing. I’ve been craving your cooking. You can make dinner tonight.”

Stephanie was Christopher’s older sister, and she had always treated Amelia like the household help. It wasn’t surprising. However Christopher treated her, his sister naturally followed suit.

“Oh, and after you’re done visiting Grandma, come by my courtyard. My son has a craft project for school. You can do it for him.”

In the past, Amelia would have agreed without hesitation. She had been so desperate to be the perfect wife that she went out of her way to please every member of Christopher’s family. She even took care of Stephanie’s son as if he were her own.

Over time, it became something everyone simply took for granted.

This time, Amelia didn’t offer any explanation and simply said, “I don’t have time.”

Stephanie froze, startled by the sudden refusal. For a moment, she just stared. Amelia had always been meek and obedient. Since when did she have a backbone?

“Do you really think just because the kindergarten principal backed you up, you’ve got power? Remember, you’re part of our family, not theirs. Do you think the principal can meddle in our family business? No wonder you’ve been married this long and still haven’t won Chris! heart. You never had any sense.”

Amelia chuckled. “Sorry. Grandma asked to see me.

Without waiting for a reply, she took Evelyn’s hand and walked inside.

Stephanie’s face was dark with frustration as her words had no effect on Amelia at all.

The moment they stepped inside, the rich scent of sandalwood filled the air.

Dorothy was seated in the living room.

“Great-grandma!” Evelyn’s face lit up with pure joy as she ran straight into the old woman’s arms. Dorothy’s eyes softened with delight. “It’s been so long since you came to play with me. What a sweet girl.” Then, she turned her gaze toward Amelia. “Mia, it’s been ages since you visited. Come and sit with me.”

Her eyes lingered on Amelia’s figure. “You look so much thinner. Are you on a diet?”

Amelia smiled as she crossed the room and sat down beside her. “Of course not. When older folks look at the younger generation, they always think we’re too skinny. Where have I lost weight? If I eat any more, I’ll turn into a pig.”

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