Chapter 497
Chapter 497:
She noted that Marc was the older of Terence’s offspring, and the poised woman beside him was likely Pamela Reed, his mother.
Terence was out of the country, so he had missed today’s gathering. Fernanda recalled that he had another son, Nolan Reed, who was also absent.
The grandchildren of the Reed family were ranked in terms of age, with Cristian placed third, younger than his uncle’s two sons.
Marc kept the mood light with his jokes. “I’ve never seen Grandpa take to anyone like this. Even Evie and Annie might fall short. They’d probably be green with envy if they knew.”
Curran dismissed the notion with a casual wave of his hand. “Nah, those girls aren’t the type to sweat the small stuff.”
Fernanda didn’t even attempt to figure out who Evie and Annie were. To her, large families were simply a recipe for confusion—too many names and faces, and it was easy to get lost.
As the evening progressed, everyone raised a glass to Curran—everyone except Cristian.
Marc, flashing a congenial smile, nudged Cristian. “Hey, Cristian, why don’t you share a drink with Grandpa? It’s the old man’s birthday, and it wouldn’t be complete without a word from you.”
At that, all eyes turned to Cristian.
He was the picture of ease, one hand steadying a wine glass on the table, the other casually draped over the back of his chair. Clearly a bit tipsy and lost in his own thoughts, he had tuned out Marc’s words.
Marc tried again. “Cristian?”
Cristian slowly opened his eyes and met Marc’s gaze. “Hmm?”
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“You’re not around much, and we seldom break bread like this. Since it’s Grandpa’s big day, don’t you have anything to add?”
“I’d rather not.” Cristian’s gaze was slightly unfocused. “You all have already wished him well, and that’s enough.”
“But it’s different. You should wish Grandpa a happy birthday yourself.” Marc’s tone sounded like a boss coaxing a reluctant employee at a corporate meeting—annoying, to say the least.
Cristian reclined further in his chair, a sly grin playing on his lips. “Trying to stir the pot, aren’t you?”
Marc’s smile stiffened.
Cristian sneered. “You know full well the old man isn’t keen on seeing me, yet here you are, pushing me into the spotlight? What, aiming to spoil the mood?”
“Ha, hardly!” Marc burst out laughing. “We’re all family here—just a friendly reminder. But hey, if you’re not up for it, let’s just drink and be merry!”
Curran’s expression was grim, leaving everyone wondering whether it was because of Cristian or Marc.
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