Chapter 62_Marrying

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 Valerie initially thought Matthew was joking, but a nce at his earnest expression told her he was serious. A pang of sympathy for Matthew washed

 over her.

 Seeking to reassure him, she said gently. “Mr. Grant, don’t worry. I think it’s just because you’re quite tall. Kids might initially be intimidated, like a small animal seeing something muchrger. But once they get to know you, they’ll see there’s nothing to be afraid of”

 Matthew wanted to exin that his intimidating presence wasn’t just about his height. Not only children, but adults too often felt uneasy around him. Yet, there was one exception–Valerie. Despite her petite stature, she was always fearless.

 Feeling his mood lighten, Matthew said, I’ll take the fruits out. Be careful with your hand, and let me know if you need help.”

 “Alright, thank you, Mr. Grant. Valerie nodded.

 Valerie was preparing seafood, which didn’t take much time. The mear was being stewed, and she figured she’d be done in half an hour. However, keen to avoid leaving Matthew alone with Julian and Ashley and potentially creating an awkward situation, she decided to hurry.

 Valerie had underestimated Matthew. ustomed to scrutiny from his days climbing to the top of Naria Group, and known for his stoic demeanor, Matthew was unfazed by potentially ufortable situations. Ironically, it was Julian and Ashley who were more likely to feel out of ce.

 Julian was particrly keen to know more about Matthew. However, shung across from Matthew, Julian felt oddly scrutinized under his gaze,

 Feeling the need to establish his role as Valerie’s protective elder brother, Julian cleared his throat and began his inquiry. “When did you meet Valerie? Why did you decide to marry her? What’s your family background”

 These were typical questions, indeed. Matthew mused to himself that Valerie had rightly predicted Julian’s questions the night before, “Well, Julian, I’ve known Valerie for quite some time. I knew she was the one I wanted to share my life with, so I proposed, and we’ve been together ever since.”

 Julian might have found Matthew’s response more convincing had it not been delivered with such a stoic expression, Julian’s brow furrowed as he probed further, “What about your family? Valerie mentioned you’re originally from Kranson City, right?”

 Matthew had nothing to hide. “Yes. I’m from Kranson City, but I actually grew up chewhere. I don’t really know the city well. His life had been spent mostly abroad, punctuated by lessons from tutors.

 “And have your parents met Valerie! Marriage is very important. Shouldn’t your parents have visited our family by now?” Julian frowned, feeling that Matthew’s family had overlooked Valerie.

 Matthew paused, then said in a low voice, “My parents passed away”

 Julian, ready to press his point, was taken aback. The edge in his voice softened immediately. “Oh I’m sorry. I didn’t know that”

 “It’s okay, Julian. There’s no need for apologies” Matthew remainedposed. His parents had died in a car ident when he was very young Over the years, he hade to terms with the tragedy, though it felt somewhat wrong to admit he barely remembered their faces.

 Julian’s embarrassment was understandable—it was always difficult to inadvertently stir up someone’s painful memories. Feeling awkward, he stood up abruptly. “Valerie shouldn’t be cooking alone. I’ll see if she needs help. He motioned for Ashley to <be along.

 Ashley responded, Til watch Aiden on the balcony. He’s busy with his blocks.”

 is relief palpable.

 “Okay.” Julian walked into the kitchen, his

 Catching him by surprise. Valerie asked, “Julian, I’m almost done here.

 As she tried to usher him out, Julian caught her hand, his expression one of distress. “Valerie, I just learned that Matthew’s parents have passed away. Why didn’t you tell me something so significant?”

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Chapter 62