Xanthor is a Chinese restaurant.
Ethan White waited with Serena Jennings in a private room for about ten minutes, waiting for Ethan’s parents to arrive.
After many years without seeing them, Serena didn’t recognize them at first, but Ethan’s mother’s domineering aura was still as strong as ever, and her attire was extremely stylish.
"Uncle, Auntie, long time no see."
Serena took the initiative to greet them.
"Hmm..."
Joan Garrison looked Serena up and down, her gaze filled with scrutiny and appraisal.
Serena’s outfit today was quite dignified and steady, and Joan seemed satisfied.
"Dad, Mom, let’s sit down and talk!"
Ethan proactively pulled out chairs for Walter White and Joan to sit down.
The dishes were ordered on the spot, and Ethan asked Walter and Joan to order first, then asked Serena, "Serena, what would you like to eat?"
"I’m fine with anything."
In this environment, she really could eat anything, because she had no appetite at all. 𝕗𝐫𝐞𝕖𝕨𝐞𝗯𝚗𝕠𝘃𝐞𝚕.𝐜𝗼𝚖
"Serena, don’t be polite. Just treat it like you’re having a meal with your own family."
Walter’s words sounded amiable, yet Serena felt even more constrained.
After the food was served, the situation eased a bit. Ethan chatted idly with his parents while eating, and Serena focused on eating in silence.
"Serena..."
Suddenly, Joan directly addressed Serena by name.
She looked up to see Joan staring intently at her, as if there was something dirty on her face.
"You and my son... how far have you progressed?"
"Mom!"
Ethan couldn’t help but shout.
"Don’t interrupt."
Joan turned to glare at Ethan.
The atmosphere at the dining table turned awkward, and Serena smiled, responding calmly:
"Ethan and I have always been good friends."
"Then, as a good friend, would you be willing to do Ethan a little favor?"
Joan’s next words surprised Serena.
So... Ethan’s parents had insisted on having dinner with her tonight because they needed her help?
"Auntie can first tell me what it is. If I can help, I surely won’t refuse."
Joan curved her lips, seemingly satisfied with Serena’s reply.
She picked up a teacup, took a sip, then slowly spoke: "Serena, you know our Ethan likes you..."
Serena was startled, not expecting Joan to speak so directly.
"Ethan’s great-grandfather is already a hundred years old, at the end of his life. His greatest wish is to see Ethan get married..."
By now, Serena had guessed what Joan wanted from her.
"I’m not trying to make it difficult for you... His great-grandfather has been living in the countryside, and I just need you to put on a wedding dress and pretend to have a wedding with Ethan for his great-grandfather to see. It would fulfill his old wish and let him leave without regrets..."
As Joan spoke, the atmosphere at the table grew increasingly heavy and oppressive.
Seeing Serena just listening silently without speaking, Joan continued:
"Although... you compensated us with money for what happened in high school, it still caused Ethan and our family great harm. Even if it’s to atone, you shouldn’t refuse such a small favor, right?"
Such a small favor...
Joan’s casual phrasing made Serena sigh inwardly.

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