Chapter 61

Kayla preferred that Felicia not accompany them; she worried Felicia might cause trouble. Myra sighed, patting Kayla’s hand. “If only you were always so obedient,” she lamented.

Kayla replied playfully, “She can do whatever she wants, but I can’t. That’s why I have to behave. What if you and Dad don’t like me anymore and kick me out?” The implication was clear: Felicia, secure in her status as the Fullers’ biological daughter, acted recklessly. Even disrespectful behavior couldn't lead to her abandonment.

Dexter and Myra, however, found Kayla’s words endearing and pitiable, a reaction they wouldn’t have had from anyone else.

Myra smiled dotingly. “You’re loved, Kay. Don’t ever talk about leaving. You’re the apple of our eye, got it?”

“Got it! I’m treasured by the Fullers,” Kayla declared, chin raised proudly.

“Glad you know it!”

Cheerful conversation filled the car as they arrived at the Lawson residence. Their prior announcement ensured a smooth entry. A butler greeted them and ushered them into the main hall of the villa.

Kayla, a frequent visitor, was familiar with the surroundings. Matthew practiced calligraphy in the hall, the large sandalwood table strewn with still-wet sheets. Arnold, grinding ink beside him, announced the Fullers’ arrival.

“Grandpa, we have guests,” he said.

Matthew’s pause resulted in a dropped ink blot, ruining his nearly finished work. He flung his pen aside, irritated. “Do you think I can’t see or hear? You were supposed to focus on grinding ink!”

“Yes, Grandpa. I’ll be more careful,” Arnold quickly apologized.

Matthew, after wiping his hands with a napkin provided by a maid, finally acknowledged the Fullers, inviting them to sit. Noticing Felicia’s absence, he asked, “Where’s my granddaughter-in-law?”

The term prompted varied expressions from the Fullers.

Dexter cleared his throat, smiling awkwardly. “Mr. Lawson, we’re here to discuss that. Neither Arnold nor Felicia wishes to marry. Forcing them would only create unhappiness.” Myra nodded in agreement.

Dexter continued, “If you desire a marriage alliance, consider Kayla and Arnold. They’re fond of each other, and Kayla will always be part of our family.”

Matthew looked surprised. “Do you think I chose Felicia because she’s your biological daughter?”

Dexter and Myra exchanged puzzled glances. “Isn’t that why?” they implicitly questioned. They'd assumed that was the sole reason for Matthew’s choice.

Matthew shook his head. “No. I chose Felicia for who she is, not whose daughter she is.” He clearly didn't value the Fuller bloodline; Felicia, to him, was exceptional in her own right.

Dexter was speechless. Myra interjected, “Mr. Lawson, we should respect the children’s wishes regarding marriage. Forcing it won’t lead to happiness.”