"Julian, Ashley, this is" Valerie began, but almost called him "Mr. Grant."

Matthew smoothly interjected, sensing her hesitation. "Just call me Matthew. Please come in." He stepped aside, his expression cool but not unfriendly, exuding refined grace.

Julian's expression softened at the welcoming gesture. However, Aiden, shy by nature, was intimidated by the unfamiliar setting and the presence of a stranger. He clung to Julian, cautiously peeking at Matthew.

Julian gently encouraged Aiden. "Aiden, this is your Uncle Matthew. Say hello to him."

Valerie squatted, opening her arms. "Aiden, you were excited to see me today, right? Come give me a hug, okay?"

Despite their reassurances, Aiden grew more anxious, gripping Julian's pants tightly. Just as tears seemed imminent, Matthew produced two large toy boxes.

Aiden's eyes widened in surprise. One box contained a complete set of Transformers model kits; the other, a deluxe train building block set—irresistible treasures for any child.

Valerie looked at Matthew, puzzled. "When did he get these?"

Before she could question him, sensing Aiden's hesitation, she quickly encouraged him. "Look, Aiden. These are from Uncle Matthew. If you say 'thank you' to him, they're yours."

Aiden, still nervously clinging to Julian, glanced at Valerie and then warily at Matthew. The toys were too tempting, and after a moment of hesitation, he cautiously approached Matthew and timidly said, "Thank you, Uncle Matthew."

"You're welcome," Matthew replied, handing over the toys. A gentle smile softened his face, making him seem more approachable.

Aiden was completely absorbed with his new toys, barely noticing Matthew struggle to hold the large boxes. Valerie stepped in to help. Once Aiden had a firm grip, his face broke into a delighted grin as he inspected his gifts, warming up to Matthew.

Valerie let out a relieved sigh and shot Matthew a thankful glance. "I told you there was no need to buy fruit; Julian always brings plenty. But then again, Julian, you've brought too much; I wonder if we can finish them before they spoil."

Matthew joined the conversation. "Thank you for the fruit, Julian."

Julian waved off the thanks. "Don't mention it, Valerie. You love these. I made sure to get the freshest ones."

As Julian began hauling the fruit boxes inside, Matthew offered to help. "Let me help with that, Julian."

Julian, already weary from lugging the heavy boxes up several floors, appreciated the offer.

Matthew's willingness to help slightly shifted Julian's view of him. Before his visit, Julian had braced himself for the worst, imagining a man with a foul temper and dubious morals. He had even brought brass knuckles as a precaution, planning to use them as a weapon if this new family member mistreated Valerie. Valerie had faced enough hardships, and Julian was determined to protect her.

However, meeting Matthew somewhat changed Julian's attitude. Matthew might have a stern exterior, but his actions spoke volumes—he shared in household duties, thoughtfully purchased toys to comfort Aiden, and readily helped with heavy lifting.

Julian's respect for Matthew increased. However, he couldn't completely let go of his reservations. After all, Matthew got Valerie pregnant without a proper wedding. Julian remained wary, not fully ready to embrace Matthew as family.