Chapter 383

Roy’s face flushed, but fortunately, the lighting on his end was dim enough that Molly couldn’t see it clearly through the screen.

With the screen between them, Roy didn’t have to worry about Molly noticing anything. He glanced up, hinting softly. “Momo, Loang’s pretty chilly. Make sure you don’t catch a cold, okay?”

Although he said all the right things, his eyes lingered on her exposed skin. The longer he stared, the thirstier he felt, and the hotter his face burned.

“I’m indoors,” Molly replied casually. Whatever cold there was outside, she couldn’t feel it in there.

“So, Momo, are you trying to tease me?” Roy asked, putting on an innocent front, though deep down he was sure Molly was doing it on purpose just to mess with him.

Privately, his thoughts weren’t nearly as pure. ‘Her skin looks so smooth. I just want to kiss her.’

Hearing this, Molly chuckled casually and pulled the towel more securely around her shoulders. “Roy, it’s not like I’m not wearing anything. Besides, I grew up in Ustrana. People aren’t as conservative here as they are back home.”

Roy dropped his head, completely unable to argue. “Guess I read too much into it.”

“Exactly,” Molly teased.

Roy felt defeated. Molly, of course, would never admit it – but she’d definitely teased her little puppy on purpose, just to see how he’d react. It was safe to say she was quite pleased with the outcome.

Molly took a sip of warm water and said casually, “Pass the phone to Sheary. I want to chat with the girls for a bit.”

Roy pouted. “Momo, you don’t miss me at all, do you?”

The video call had barely lasted three minutes, and she was already asking to talk to Shermaine and the others. While drying her hair, Molly gave a low, indulgent hum. “I know you’re a good boy.”

Roy’s heart melted, but he still tried to bargain for some alone time. “Momo, promise you’ll give me an hour later?”

Molly wasn’t going into the office that morning – she’d given herself the day off. After all, knowing how to make money also meant learning how to enjoy life. She replied simply, “Deal.”

After passing the phone to Shermaine, Roy kept popping up in the video from time to time, desperate for attention. But more often than not, he reverted to his usual routine.

He’d go around showing off Molly’s picture to anyone who would look. Sidling up to Henry, he held out his phone proudly. “Look at my Momo. Isn’t she gorgeous?”

Henry chuckled lightly, “Your Momo?”

Roy shot back, full of conviction, “Momo is mine and mine only.”

Henry grinned. “Talk big all you want. Make it official if you can.”

With that, Roy huffed and went off in search of someone more agreeable.

Ross’ first attempt at grilling chicken wings didn’t go well – both ended up charred. Unfazed, he just tossed them out and grabbed two more to try again.

Joshua, on the other hand, was rarely seen grilling, but with his natural skill in the kitchen, this was child’s play for him. Before long, the serving tray was stacked with perfectly cooked barbecue.

“Read esme tips, my deared brother in law?” Joshua drawled, the deep voice laced with amusement.

“We thanks.” He wasn’t about to fail, since spend time he’d already got the hang of it. After all, practice makes perfect.

Before long, it became clear to everyone that the Tien men weren’t just grilling. There was definitely a silent competition going on. That was family for you – equal parts love and rivalry, and surely entertaining as hell.

So Shermaine and Danielle had more than enough to eat, with plates piled high with barbecue in front of them.

The video call with Molly was still going, and even through the screen, she could almost smell the smoky aroma and feel the laid-back, happy vibe. “You two are really about to become family-family,” she said, clearly amused.

She was referring to the moment she realized Danielle’s boyfriend was none other than Shermaine’s older brother.

“You could be too,” Danielle teased back without missing a beat.

Molly raised an eyebrow.

Danielle laughed. “Just take Roy home with you.”

Their families were already incredibly close; they were practically extended kin. If Molly got together with Roy, she and Shermaine would officially be a family.

“Give me a break.” Molly chuckled. Roy’s support squad was way too powerful. First, he had Shermaine, then Danielle joined in.

At that moment, Roy, already a few drinks in, popped into the frame again, all puppy-dog eyes, and whined playfully, “Momooo, please take me home with you.”