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    Jacob found himself praying to God, wishing that ine would never return. For over two decades, she had caused him endless torment, and he felt that he had achieved the unimaginable because of her. Now, it was finally time for him to be free.


    If ine were to stay away for good, Jacob was convinced that he could rekindle his rtionship with Matilda.


    He also believed that Matilda’s son was a genuinely nice person, someone who would be open-minded enough to ept him as a stepfather.


    Regarding ire, she was a sensible and devoted daughter. If her mother was truly gone, ire would surely not oppose him pursuing his true love. After all, it wasn’t feasible for him to live alone forever if ine vanished from his life.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    His only worry at the moment was the possibility of ine’s return.<fneb50> This update is avable on find?novel</fneb50>


    Thus, he could only pray to God for his wish toe true.


    Unbeknownst to him, it wasn’t God’s decision to make, but rather that of his son-inw, Charlie.


    ***


    As Charlie arrived at the entrance of Shangri-La, the hotel staff promptly approached and opened the door for him.


    Handing over the key to the staff responsible for valet parking, he addressed Jacob, Matilda, and Paul, saying, “Shangri-La is known as a luxury hotel in Aurous Hill, and they serve the finest local dishes. I hope you enjoy it.”


    Matilda quickly replied, “Thank you so much, Charlie! I’m not picky about food, and after being away from Aurous Hill for so long, I can’t wait to savor the local vors!”


    Charlie chuckled, “Looks like we’vee to the right ce.”


    Turning to Paul, he inquired, “Paul, how do you feel about Chinese cuisine? Do you think you’ll enjoy it?”


    Paulughed, “Charlie, keep in mind that I’m half Chinese! Honestly,pared to the fast food we have in the States, I prefer Asian dishes, especially Chinese.”


    “By the way, my mom is an excellent cook! She’s the best Chinese chef I’ve ever met, and her food is both delicious and wholesome.”


    Charlie eximed in surprise, “Wow, Auntie, not only are you stunning and graceful, but you’re also an incredible cook!”


    Matilda lightly pped her son’s back and said, “Don’t pay attention to him; he’s just bragging.”


    Jacob sighed, “Back in college, you always said you wanted to cook for me, but we couldn’t because we lived on campus. It’s been two decades, and I still haven’t tasted your cooking…”


    Matilda smiled warmly and replied, “I can certainly cook for you if the opportunity arises, but I must warn you, my cooking might not be as great as Paul ims. Don’t hold it against me if you’re disappointed.”


    Excitedly, Jacob blinked and asked, “Really? When will you be free?”


    Then, he added eagerly, “You can cook at my ce! Just let me know what you need, and I’ll have the ingredients ready! You cane over, cook, and the kids will join us for dinner!”


    Matilda replied somewhat awkwardly, “Is that really okay? Do you think ine will want to see me?”


    In theirst phone conversation, Jacob had only mentioned that he and ine had separated, leaving out the details, including that she was missing. Therefore, Matilda assumed they were simply living in separate areas of the same house, which made her hesitant. She didn’t want to encounter ine, especially considering ine’s less-than-kind nature.


    Jacob waved his hands dismissively and assured her, “Oh, don’t worry about that; she’s not home right now, and who knows when she’ll return? I think she’ll be gone for a while.”


    He continued with enthusiasm, “In my opinion, there’s no time like the present! Let’s have lunch here at Shangri-La, then you can check into your room to rest. Later this evening,e over to my house, and we can cook dinner together. I’d love to introduce you to my daughter!”


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