The Brewer family lived in the old quarter of Seaside City, not far from Rippling Gardens—just a ten-minute drive, and they arrived in no time.
The Brewers were one of Seaside City's oldest and most distinguished families. Their estate sprawled over several acres, a traditional manor with crisp white walls, dark slate roofs, and elegant gables visible from afar.
Unlike homes filled with flashy imported décor, the Brewers' residence was steeped in the quiet dignity and weight of generations past.
As Seren stepped out of the car, she spotted Nadine from a distance. Nadine stood at the front gate with her father, Hollis Brewer, and her mother, Susan. Clearly, they'd been waiting for a while.
Nadine was the first to approach. She strode over and deftly took the gift basket from Seren's hands, grumbling as she did.
"I told my parents you'd be coming over this morning, and guess what? They had me up at six, out shopping with Aggy for all your favorite dishes. I swear, I don't even get up that early for work! If my brother or sister weren't out of town, they'd probably have been dragged back here too."
Seren felt a quiet warmth bloom in her chest. Despite Nadine's complaints, every little detail revealed just how much the Brewer family treasured her.
"You really do talk too much, young lady." Susan caught up, pretending to scold Nadine with a playful glare. Then, her face broke into a wide smile as she turned to Seren and Lennon. "You two are here to eat, not to move house—no need to bring gifts! We're family, aren't we?"
"She's right," Hollis chimed in, laughing heartily as he pressed a large envelope—thick with cash—into Lennon's hand. "Next time, just come like you're coming home. Leave the gifts behind."
Susan beamed, explaining, "This is for Lennon—his first visit as our son-in-law. Hollis wanted to welcome him properly, so this is his 'welcome to the family' packet."


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The readers' comments on the novel: Watching You Burn In Regret
Why is it stopped at 69.. please update...
Lovin' this!...