When Jamie finally came downstairs after getting ready, the meal was already served on the dining table, and Winnie had returned from her walk.She held a ladle, serving soup, and couldn’t help but laugh when she noticed the oddly cut carrot pieces. Jack, what’s with these carrot shapes? This doesn’t look like your usual cooking skills. I didn’t cut them today, Ben replied curtly.Since there were only three of them in the house, it was clear who the culprit was. Winnie turned to Jamie. Jamie, I remember you being pretty good at cooking! What happened to these carrots? Guess I’m a little rusty. It’s been a while since I cooked, Jamie mumbled, wishing she could disappear under the table.As she pulled out her chair, she moved too quickly and winced, nearly straining her back. Winnie quickly reached over to steady her. Your back really needs to be checked out. It’s getting too serious. Why don’t I come with you to see the doctor tomorrow? No need. I’ll get it looked at next time I’m at the hospital, Jamie replied quickly, dreading the idea of Winnie learning the real reason for her back pain.Winnie didn’t press further, and dinner continued with her leading most of the conversation. Ben chimed in occasionally, while Jamie kept her head down, trying to remain as invisible as possible.Halfway through dinner, Ben’s phone buzzed. It was his mother, Mrs. Lucas, calling. He glanced at the screen, then stepped out onto the balcony to answer, Hey, Mom, what’s up?Well, can’t I call my son without a reason? It’s been two weeks since you’ve been home for dinner! Come home tonight, she urged, eager to introduce him to the woman she had carefully selected as a potential match.Ben was about to decline when sheadded, I made your favorite stew. I cooked it all day. I even burned my hand a little, so you’d better come home and have at least a bowl or twe With that, Ben couldn’t bring himself to refuse. Ignoring such a gesture would be heartless. Alright, I’ll be there in about half an hour.Drive safe, no rush, she replied, her voice warm with care. Then, she glanced at the young woman sitting beside her, feeling more than pleased.This young lady was everything she envisioned for her son’s future wife. She was beautiful, accomplished, and refined from her time abroad. She was sure Ben would approve. Meanwhile, back in the house, Ben simply told Winnie, I have work to finish tonight, so I won’t be coming back.Seriously? Working this late? Your boss is something else. Can’t this wait until morning? Winniegrumble but was quick to fetch his coat and bag. Just remember to take a quick nap if you’re working through the night. It’s so hard on the body. Ben just nodded. Go back to dinner. He put on his shoes and left.Jamie thought she could finally relax that night. After dinner, she settled on the couch with Winnie to watch TV, relieved to have a quiet evening. Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Find_Nøvel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.But just then, Jamie’s phone chimed.It was a new message notification.