Chapter 32

Suzanne would have to face the music sooner or later. She shouldn’t be like this. She was actually quite calm by nature, but for some reason, after meeting Austin, she couldn’t control herself.

Suzanne took a deep breath before replying, “I understand. I see you tonight.”

“Okay.”

After hanging up the call, Suzanne focused on thinking about how to proceed next, while the silent Shane couldn’t help but ask, “Whose mother is looking forward to meeting you? Is it a guy’s?”

Suzanne glanced sideways at Shane, who was looking at her with confusion. She awkwardly turned her head away and calmly replied, “Nothing. Just a friend.”

Shane frowned, his gaze full of suspicion. But when he saw that Suzanne didn’t seem to want to explain, he didn’t probe further. “Oh. Alright then.”

He then excitedly shouted, “Let’s keep going!”

With that, Shane slammed on the gas pedal, and the car shot forward like a bullet.

Suzanne let out a sigh of relief. She didn’t bother about how fast Shane was going, as her mind was preoccupied with how to handle the matter that night.

In the most bustling and prime location in the heart of Thalore was a secluded estate hidden within. Surrounded by tall plants, the estate was nearly invisible to passersby, who would often stop and look since they were curious about what lay inside.

Austin’s car passed through the security checkpoint at the entrance without meeting any resistance, which drew many curious glances.

Suzanne sat in the passenger seat, her hand resting on her chin as she gazed out the window. She had always known the Halls were impressive, but she hadn’t expected them to be this powerful. Her mind was reeling with chaos as she tried to plan how to face the upcoming situation.

Austin noticed her nervousness when he glanced at her and reassured her, “Relax.”

Suzanne returned his gaze and nodded hesitantly. “Okay.”

She took a deep breath, and the two of them got out of the car.

Austin didn’t rush to head inside but instead slightly bent his arm. Suzanne froze momentarily, but then she quickly understood and raised her arm to link with his. They were husband and wife. When meeting the parents, they had to be affectionate.

However, Suzanne still felt slightly awkward. He looked at her with a deep gaze. “You’ll have to get used to these things sooner or later.”

Suzanne bit her lip and nodded.

The estate was large, and every step inside revealed something beautiful. The landscaping was meticulously done, showing that considerable money and effort had been invested in it.

Austin led Suzanne inside and to the living room of the house. Inside, the furniture was made from rosewood and featured intricate carvings. Beneath a delicate, hollowed-out screen, a square cabinet held a candle burner. The burning candle curled smoke throughout the air.

Suzanne immediately spotted the woman sitting on the couch. She wore a dark green dress, and even though she looked like she maintained herself well, there were still some wrinkles on her face. After all, she would be eighty in two months.

Austin was the fourth-born in his family—a child the couple had in their later years. The older woman’s scrutinous gaze was fixed on Suzanne, who wore an elegant, light-pink satin dress. She exuded grace and calm with her outfit. Her dark hair was loosely pinned up by a simple hairpin. Her light makeup only accentuated her features, and with just one glance, Felicia liked her immensely. A satisfied smile appeared on her lips.

Just as Suzanne was about to stiffly greet her, Felicia suddenly exclaimed excitedly, “You brat! You’ve finally brought my daughter-in-law over!”