Broken Memories, Intertwined Hearts

Chapter 10

"Auntie, my dear auntie, you know I'm not good at talking. It’s all my fault; please forgive me." Ines shook Rita's arm, looking pathetic.

Rita's hand smacked her hard on her forehead, making a crisp sound, "Alright, get off. You can't pull off this cute act. Not only does it not work, it also makes people want to smack you."

Ethan's gaze shifted as if a hint of pain flashed through his eyes. Rita caught his gaze from her peripheral vision.

Rita was not buying her act, and Ines had no choice but to let go of her arm and step back behind Ethan. She pushed him in frustration, "You deal with the trouble you've caused. I'm not helping."

Rita watched the two interact. It was so natural, and she felt a surge of emotions.

Ethan sat down next to Rita, his eyes sincere, "Auntie, I want to apologize to you. I made Ines my wife without your knowledge and hurt your feelings. Our meeting was somewhat accidental, and we both acted out of impulsiveness. Our marriage may have been quick, but it was the result of deep consideration from both of us. I know that my words seem empty, but I still want to make my position clear. I'm taking this marriage and Ines very seriously, and I hope you'll support us in the future."

After his speech, Ethan handed a document to Rita, then stepped back to Ines' side.

Ines looked at Rita's face nervously and tugged at Ethan's sleeve. Ethan patted Ines' hand reassuringly.

Rita returned the document to Ethan and said calmly, "Fine, I can't meddle in your affairs. You'll have to walk down your own life path."

Ines didn't expect to get the approval so quickly. She breathed a sigh of relief. She couldn't help but wonder what was written on Ethan's document. Just as she leaned over to take a look, Ethan put it away quickly, and she didn’t see a single word.

When Zander came back with groceries, Ethan got up to take the bags from him, smiling and greeting, "Uncle, you're back."

Zander was stunned for a moment, but he saw his wife's softened expression, and everything became clear to him. He handed the bags to Ethan with a smile, "Just put them in the kitchen. I'll deal with them later."

"I'll do it. Today I get to show some of my skills to you."

Ines pouted and glanced at Ethan, finally realizing what 'making oneself at home' meant. Auntie had just calmed down, and he was already pushing his luck. No one invited him to stay for dinner, but he took it upon himself to offer to cook, to save face, and to show off.

Hopefully, he wouldn't mess it up. Text property © Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org.

"Alright, let's do as Mr. Meyer says." Rita agreed. Besides, someone offered to help her husband.

Ethan went into the kitchen while Ines stayed worried. She looked slightly anxious.

"Alright, you're not relaxed at all. If you're worried, go in and help." Rita said.

Ines laughed awkwardly, "Auntie, you know my culinary skills are poor. I'll be a burden if I join them."

Rita stopped being warm for a moment and crossed her arms over her chest. She gave Ines a serious look, "Tell me, does your marriage have anything to do with your cousin's wedding?"

Zander's hand rested on Rita's shoulder as he looked at Ines, waiting for an answer.