She Was Never Just a Pretty Face novel Chapter 284

Joyce felt entirely too awkward to accept them.

It felt entirely too much like 'meeting the parents.'

Luther grabbed her overnight bag from the trunk, wrapped an arm around her shoulders, and murmured, "Just take them. Consider it officially meeting the parents. Once your brother gets back from his trip, I'll formally ask for your hand. We should get married soon. If he's open to it, we can formally adopt Jocelyn. It'll be wonderful to have all the kids growing up together. I'm getting older, and I might not be able to have any more children. Since Jocelyn is your blood relative, this is the perfect arrangement."

Standing nearby, Eleanor nearly choked on her own breath.

She knew Luther was heartbroken over everything Hilda—now Joyce—had been through, and he was right not to put her through childbirth again. She had already given him three beautiful children. But claiming he was sterile? What a load of absolute nonsense! He was only thirty-five; how on earth could he not have children?

Joyce's cheeks flushed a deep, rosy pink.

Her brain entirely short-circuited.

It wasn't until a moment later that she remembered he had used protection the other night.

If he couldn't have children, why bother using it?

Nathan shot his son a withering glare.

What the hell was this bastard spouting?

Did he not care about embarrassing the poor girl?

(Even if she was technically his ex-wife.)

The family filled the house with laughter and chatter. Eleanor kept the chubby-cheeked Jocelyn in her arms while little Landon bounced excitedly beside them. Nathan spoke to Joyce in a remarkably soft, polite tone. For the first time, little Annie stuck close to her father, her small hand firmly grasping his. Luther froze for a second, overwhelmed by a sudden surge of emotion. It had been years since Annie had willingly paid him any attention, treating him with nothing but cold indifference, yet here she was, finally seeking his affection.

The crystal chandeliers glowed brilliantly overhead.

The mouthwatering aroma of dinner drifted through the halls.

Wilma bustled about, practically walking on air. Eleanor had given all the staff generous bonuses and was currently busy teaching Jocelyn how to say 'Grandma.' Jocelyn looked so much like Annie did at that age. She sweetly babbled out 'Grandpa' and 'Grandma,' her angelic little voice entirely melting the older couple's hearts.

Luther led Joyce upstairs to drop off her bag.

The moment they stepped into the bedroom, he pinned her against the door and leaned in for a kiss.

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