“Alright,” Jonathan didn’t immediately declare he had no intention of remarrying. Whether he wanted to date or meet new people was something only he knew. He remained vague to avoid Irene pushing more women on him.

Seeing he finally seemed more open, Irene smiled. “That’s the way to go. Don’t shut the door completely. If there’s someone suitable, just give it a shot. I have a few great girls—”

“I’ll handle it myself,” Jonathan interrupted, not even glancing at the women Irene was trying to introduce, before turning and walking away.

Irene felt helpless. She had already accepted gifts from several major companies, and if Jonathan refused to meet anyone, it would put her in a difficult position. Left with no choice, she called Heidi and suggested setting up blind dates for Edward instead. Heidi readily agreed, promising to arrange for Edward to meet them during his next break.

A few days later, the Lynn family gathered for a family dinner celebrating Werner’s birthday—Jonathan’s uncle Donald’s father. Hayden thought it a good opportunity to bring everyone together.

By evening, Donald arrived after finishing his hospital shift. Irene and Cathy arrived together, and once Hayden sat down, he asked, “Where’s Cheryl? She’s not here yet?”

Cathy replied, “Cheryl’s out of town for an art exhibition. She won’t be able to make it back today.”

Hayden huffed. “That girl’s getting too casual. It’s her dad’s birthday—couldn’t she plan better?”

Werner intervened. “Dad, Cheryl sent me birthday wishes on WhatsApp and even bought me a watch. Check this out.” He grinned, showing off the watch already on his wrist.

Hayden then asked, “And what about Jonathan? He’s not coming either?”

Irene explained, “Jonathan’s on a business trip in Everport and couldn’t make it back, but he booked the best restaurant in Nareigh for Werner’s birthday.” Soon after, a driver sent by Jonathan arrived.

The venue was a century-old restaurant with an open courtyard by an artificial lake. Guests dined by the lake, enjoying the performances of lute players and classical dancers. Appetizers were served one by one, and the waiter respectfully poured wine, saying, “Please enjoy!”

Werner picked up a bottle, examined the label, and his eyes lit up. “Such fine wine, worth a fortune. Thanks to Jonathan, I get to taste something this fancy.” He poured a small amount for Hayden, mindful of his age and health.

Before long, several of Werner’s close friends arrived to celebrate and share drinks. For men past their thirties, a bit of strong liquor was always welcome. The table was lined with several bottles of fine wine.

Irene couldn’t hide her pride. “It’s all thanks to Jonathan—he really pulled out all the stops for Werner.”

“Jonathan is super close to him,” Cathy added. “Every year for Werner’s birthday, Jonathan personally handles everything—the venue, the food, the drinks. He takes care of it all.”

Cathy quickly chimed in, “Irene, we all know how thoughtful Jonathan is.” She then motioned to Donald, urging him to pour Irene another drink. Cathy suggested they share a drink with Irene, assuring her it was fine since they had a driver to take them home.

After a few sips, Irene couldn’t hold back her thoughts. She glanced at Donald, seated beside her, and asked bluntly, “Donald, you still haven’t broken up yet?”

Donald, busy pouring drinks, responded calmly, “Irene, Jennifer and I are doing great. Things are going really well between us.”

Irene sighed heavily. “Why won’t you listen to reason? What’s so special about Teresa’s sister? She’s nothing compared to the girls I know. I can introduce you to someone so much better.”

“No need, Irene. Jennifer and I are doing just fine,” Donald replied firmly.

“Look at him!” Irene turned to Cathy, pointing at Donald. “He’s just like Jonathan—completely smitten. What’s so great about someone from the Johnston family? They’re nothing.”

“Irene, don’t say that. Teresa is a good girl, and Jennifer is nice too,” Cathy tried to mediate.

Hayden’s voice suddenly cut through the conversation. Returning from the restroom, he overheard Irene and Cathy’s discussion. Despite his usual hearing issues, he seemed unusually sharp at that moment. “Has Jonathan got back with Teresa?”

“Grandpa, this is about me,” Donald said cautiously, helping the elderly Hayden back to his seat. “I’m the one in a relationship.”

Hayden’s eyes widened. “What? Don’t tell me you’re involved with Teresa! How could you do something so disgraceful?”

Cathy quickly clarified, “No, no, it’s not Teresa. It’s her sister, Jennifer. Please don’t misunderstand Donald.”

Hayden’s confusion cleared. “Ah, so it’s Teresa’s sister you’re dating? When did this happen? You sly boy, you’re full of surprises.”

“Grandpa, we’re in a stable relationship. Things are going well, and we plan to get married,” Donald explained.

“Marriage, huh? Marriage is good.” Hayden exclaimed, clearly pleased.

“You can’t get married!” Irene interjected, her voice cutting through Hayden’s enthusiasm. “Jennifer’s not suitable. She’s too assertive, lacks manners, and let’s not forget she’s Jonathan’s ex-wife’s sister. It’s just—”

Hayden slammed his fist on the table, silencing Irene mid-sentence. He pointed a finger at her, his tone sharp. “Donald’s the one I’m asking, not you.”

Irene’s face darkened, her lips pressed into a thin line. Her fingers curled into a tight fist as she thought bitterly, ‘He’s never truly accepted me.’ Feeling humiliated, Irene excused herself to the restroom and left the private room.