"It's good to be mature and well-mannered too," Lena said gently. "But always remember—you'll always be Grandma's sweet granddaughter, alright?"
Naomi's eyes grew slightly damp. "Thank you, Grandma. I understand."
"Naomi, honey, eat up," Florence urged. Something about Naomi's tone today felt off, so she gently cut in.
"Thanks, Mom," Naomi replied softly.
"Have a little more, sweetie. You look like you've lost some weight recently," Lena added, her voice warm with concern.
"Okay." Naomi nodded.
But after just a few bites, she set her fork down.
"What's wrong, dear?" Everyone glanced her way.
Naomi offered a polite, practiced smile. "Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, Dad—I'm full."
"Full already?" A few of them exchanged surprised looks.
Lena frowned. "No wonder you're looking so thin. You really didn't eat much."
"It's enough, Grandma, really. I'm okay," Naomi assured her, still smiling.
Florence studied her with worried eyes. "Naomi, are you feeling alright?"
She hadn't noticed her eating so little before. What was going on today?
"I'm fine, Mom." Naomi shook her head. Her smile and demeanor seemed just like always, yet there was something fragile underneath—a quiet sadness lingering between her brows that she was clearly trying to mask.
Florence and Lena exchanged a knowing glance. They seemed to grasp what might be going on and let out subtle sighs.
Maybe it was because of all the rumors that had been floating around lately—Naomi had gotten her hopes up, only for the Stewarts to issue a clear public statement so quickly. That must have stung.
After a moment, Florence spoke up. "Naomi, I've been thinking about taking a trip overseas. If you're not too tied up lately, why not come along?"
She thought maybe getting away could help Naomi clear her head.
Lena agreed warmly. "It would be lovely if Naomi could join you."
Naomi looked hesitant. "Mom, what's the occasion for going abroad?"
"Just to change the scenery. Will you come?" Florence's eyes held a hopeful gleam.
"I..." Naomi bit her lip, uncertain.
How could she leave the country now?
Even though the Stewarts had made their position clear, she wasn't ready to give up just yet.
Seeing Naomi's reluctance, Florence's expression softened with disappointment. She quickly reassured her, "It's alright if you're busy with work, honey."
Her plan had been to lift Naomi's spirits with a trip. If Naomi didn't want to go, there wasn't much point pushing it.
Jonathan understood Florence's intention. Since Naomi wasn't interested, he simply said, "Let's finish up here."
After all, you can't force someone's feelings.
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