Chapter 456

Skylar was used to Joe having the upper hand in such matters. Just then, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Janine: “My mom requested that I return home because Steven is bringing his girlfriend over, so I might be back late today.”

This was unexpected. Just days ago, Steven had said his girlfriend was too busy, but now she suddenly had time. From the outset, Skylar had been curious about Steven's girlfriend.

Skylar had a free afternoon and planned to meet Natalie. Upon learning about Austin's movie premiere, she eagerly accepted Natalie's invitation to join them.

"It's alright. I have a busy day ahead of me, too," Skylar replied. Both juggled demanding schedules.

After breakfast, Skylar packed her things and left. Joe left about half an hour later. An hour later, Skylar found herself at the grocery store, stocking up on Janine and Steven's favorite foods.

She arrived early to help Janine prepare dinner. Thrilled about Steven's girlfriend's first visit, Janine insisted on making at least ten dishes—in their culture, ten symbolizes completeness and perfection. She hoped Steven's girlfriend would have a positive impression of her future mother-in-law.

Skylar worried Janine would overexert herself. Thankfully, both were skilled in the kitchen—Skylar's culinary skills having been honed under Janine's watchful eye. Working together, they prepared all ten dishes before their guests arrived.

Skylar finished setting the table, washed and sliced the fruit, and laid out some cookies—a treat most girls enjoy. By the time she finished, a knock echoed through the house. Still rinsing dishes in the kitchen, Skylar called out, "Mom, I think that's them at the door."

"I'll get it!" Janine hurriedly changed into a new outfit and answered the door, more nervous than she'd been during her first meeting with Finn. She opened the door with a warm smile.

"Hello, Mrs. Sullivan," Annie greeted warmly.

Steven gestured toward Annie and introduced her: "Mom, this is my girlfriend, Annie Silver."

"Lovely to meet you, Annie. Please, come in and make yourself at home. Don't be shy," Janine invited her hospitably.

As Annie changed into slippers, she discreetly scanned the house. It was clean and tidy, just as Steven had described. The table overflowing with food, and the fruit and cookies on the coffee table, spoke volumes about Janine's efforts.

A noise from the kitchen caught Annie's attention. Steven followed her gaze and said, with a smile, "That's my sister, Skylar."

Annie's eyes flickered before she smiled and nodded.

Skylar finished washing the dishes, dried her hands, and removed her apron. Her chores done, she could finally meet Steven's girlfriend. As she walked out of the kitchen, her smile faltered slightly at the sight of Annie sitting with Steven. She couldn't believe that Annie was Steven's girlfriend.