Chapter 245: Thank You, Mom!

Maggie felt a strange unease, though she couldn't quite place its source. Nathael, in contrast, remained calm and composed.

Clara gestured to the waiter, handing Maggie the menu. "Their cuisine is delightful," she recommended gently. "Please take your time choosing."

Maggie responded, "I'm easygoing. You and Mr. Marcus can choose for me."

Demi took the menu, offering it to Maggie. "Maggie, please don't hesitate to order anything you like. We're family. No formalities."

Maggie felt a warmth spread through her. She found Demi charming—her presence, demeanor, and speech were all very appealing. Clara's attitude, however, exceeded her expectations. Their relationship in her past life hadn't been terrible, but it had felt forced. Maggie had been irritable and hostile, harboring resentment toward Nathael. Clara, as a mother, must have seen this.

"Clara and I have already ordered," Marcus added, softening his tone to avoid intimidating his future daughter-in-law.

Understanding their intentions, Maggie realized persistent refusal would seem overly formal. She ordered two dishes and passed the menu to Nathael. He remained silent, but Clara interjected, "It's best to avoid alcohol right now. I've asked for some fruit juice. I hope you enjoy it." Maggie felt like she'd walked into a trap, with Nathael seemingly creating unnecessary fuss. Recognizing it as a kindness from an elder, however, she readily agreed.

After pleasantries, Clara studied Maggie intently. Maggie's appearance was striking—confident, yet aloof, with an aura of nobility. She exuded self-assurance and carried herself with an air of superiority. Yet, something about Maggie remained elusive. Ultimately, though, the question was whether Nathael found her captivating.

Nathael was known for being lacking in female admirers. He showed minimal interest in women, rarely seen with a female companion at events. Despite media attempts to fabricate scandals, nothing ever surfaced. His sudden interest in Maggie was therefore unusual.

"What do you think of Nathael's personality, Maggie?" Clara asked gently.

After a moment, Maggie smiled. "He's kind and considerate. Though he might seem intimidating at times, it's fleeting."

An unusual silence followed. Clara was momentarily speechless. She'd intended to ask about their interactions, but Maggie's unexpected reply surprised her. Maggie seemed genuinely earnest, showing no dismissal.

Nathael, since his youth, had maintained a distance, proving elusive and challenging to engage with. Over time, he’d become more determined and introspective, earning a reputation for distance and inflexibility, even among family.

Demi broke the silence. Her expression hurt. "Maggie, you're right. Nathael really likes you. He even swiped my last batch of limited-edition dolls. Did he give them to you?"

Nathael glared at Demi. "Stay out of it."

He'd only given Demi one doll because he believed individual gifts brought more joy. Sometimes, the thrill of the hunt was more rewarding.

Maggie, surprised, looked at Nathael. "Are these part of your collection? I'm sorry, I didn't know."

Demi smiled broadly. "No need to apologize. He gave me a luxury car, and I want to give you something too. When you and Nathael marry, I'll design your wedding gown."

Demi's words were enthusiastic and playfully sincere. It suddenly dawned on Maggie why she'd never met Demi in her past life, yet felt a sense of familiarity.

"Are you the designer behind JW?" Maggie's surprise was evident.

"Yeah, do you like it? I have plenty of dolls at home"

Before Demi could finish, Nathael interjected, displeased. "I will handle her preferences."

Demi simply replied, "Alright."

Unbeknownst to them, the waiter served the dishes. Clara and Marcus radiated the most warmth. While both were approachable, meeting future in-laws was naturally nerve-wracking for Maggie.

Nathael nonchalantly removed fish bones for her, prompting meaningful glances and discreet kicks under the table from Maggie. He smirked. "You don't like it?"

All eyes turned to Maggie. She felt an urge to strangle him, but maintained her composure. "No, it's delicious."

Clara quickly added, "If you enjoy it, have more. Visit anytime; mention Nathael's name or bring him."

"Thank you, Mom," Maggie replied instinctively.

Silence fell. Maggie's eyes widened. She wanted to disappear. What did I just say?

In her past life, she'd been married to Nathael for a while. Though he hadn't officially acknowledged her, their relationship had improved. Calling Clara "Mom" had become natural. She hadn't anticipated blurting it out.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Clara!" Maggie stammered, her face flushed. The more she tried to explain, the more awkward it became.

Nathael interjected, his voice deep. "Well, technically, she didn't use the wrong title."

Clara glared at Nathael, feeling outsmarted. How am I supposed to handle this? The girl who unexpectedly got pregnant calls me "Mom"? This is a disaster!

"Nathael is right. It's not entirely wrong," Clara said gently, easing Maggie's embarrassment. "We will be family. Maggie, when's the wedding? And who manages family affairs?"