Chapter 153
Time flowed by, and before they knew it, Christmas had arrived. This was Anastasia’s first Christmas as a married Rhodes. She wanted everything to be perfect; after all, she was the new wife in the family.
First, she visited her grandmother Elisabeth, bringing loads of presents and staying for a cozy dinner. Cassian had offered to have Elisabeth join them at the Rhodes estate for Christmas, thinking it would be more festive with everyone together. But Elisabeth was happy staying with her neighbor friend, so she politely declined. Anastasia didn’t push it – she visited her grandmother regularly anyway.
After dinner, Anastasia and Cassian headed back to prepare for Christmas Eve dinner at the Rhodes family estate. Cassian’s uncles and their families would all be there tonight. The old man had three sons: the eldest was Cassian’s father, Richard Rhodes; the second was Thomas Rhodes with his wife, Miranda, and their son, Jayden; and the youngest was Gilbert Rhodes with his wife, Michelle, and their daughter, Yuria. Thomas and Gilbert both ran satellite offices, so they only came back for holidays and major family occasions.
Since Anastasia and Cassian had gotten married so quickly without a proper reception, she hadn’t met the extended family yet. Anastasia was a bundle of nerves. Cassian squeezed her hand reassuringly. “Don’t worry, Philips already picked out perfect gifts for everyone. Just hand them out and you’ll be fine.”
Anastasia bit her lip anxiously. “I just hope they’ll like me.”
“Don’t stress about it. I’ve got your back,” Cassian said, though his expression darkened slightly. The Rhodes family might look harmonious on the surface, but there were definitely undercurrents. Especially with the second and third branches – they’d always resented Cassian’s control of the company, but they didn’t dare challenge him openly because of the old man’s authority. Plus, honestly, Cassian was just too damn good at what he did for them to compete.
Anastasia took a deep breath and walked into the estate on Cassian’s arm. The great hall was brilliantly lit, with staff busy setting up the elegant Christmas dinner table with fine china and crystal. Grandfather Rhodes sat at the head of the table, his face lighting up when he saw them enter. “There’s my girl! Come, come sit down.”
Cassian nodded respectfully and guided Anastasia forward. Ian and Lancey were already seated, beaming at the couple. Uncle Thomas and Uncle Gilbert’s families had arrived as well, all eyes turning toward them as they entered.
Miranda’s smile was warm but her eyes were calculating. “So this is Anastasia! You’re even more beautiful than the photos. No wonder you swept Cassian off his feet.”
Michelle chimed in with a saccharine smile. “Yes, we heard you two got married rather suddenly. No big wedding or anything – such a shame, really.” The implication was clear: Anastasia wasn’t valued enough for a proper celebration.
Anastasia’s fingers tightened slightly, but she maintained her composure. “Hello, Aunt Miranda, Aunt Michelle. I hope you like them.” She handed over the beautifully wrapped gift boxes.
Miranda opened hers to find an exquisite silk scarf from a luxury Italian designer. Her smile became genuinely warmer. “Oh my, only the best! This is gorgeous.” Though she quickly tucked it away possessively.
Michelle’s gift was an equally expensive silk scarf from the same exclusive line – these scarves were hand woven and incredibly rare.
Yuria bounced over excitedly. “What about me, sister-in-law? Do I get a present too?”
Anastasia was ready, handing her a limited edition design handbag. “I heard you love this brand. Hope it’s your style.” Philips really was worth his weight in gold – he knew exactly what everyone in the family liked.