Unmasking the Heiress

Cole did not have a clue about old-timey dramas. He just threw on some random show to pass the time while waiting for Evangeline. He had not even paid attention until she pointed it out.

Then, taking a closer look, he just saw a bunch of characters in ancient garb hopping around the screen, which was kind of dizzying.

However, when Evangeline asked him about it, he felt too sheepish to say he would just put on anything, so he played along. "What's the big deal? Young folks get to binge-watch whatever, but an old guy like me can't be trendy?" "Oh, that's not it!" Evangeline linked her arm with Cole's. "I'm just curious, that's all.

"Grandpa, you're usually all about the great outdoors, right? Our family's garden is one of the nicest spots in Avalon City. It's perfect for a stroll when you're looking to relax."

She was right. The Foster family's garden was a sight to behold, sprawling and lush in the heart of Avalon City.

However, Cole was not having it.

"I've walked that garden so many times when you weren't here. Now you're back, and you expect me to keep at it? You think I can't get enough?"

Evangeline had not thought of that.

Seeing her grandfather act like such a kid, however, was a first for her, and it was hilarious. She could not stop laughing.

"Okay, okay, it's all on me for not moving back sooner to join you for those garden walks."

Evangeline believed.

No matter how dull the view was, it was always different when he had someone to share it with. That was when she realized just how much she had been taking Cole for granted. She thus vowed she would spend more time with him from then on.

Just then, the housekeeper came in with the chicken soup that Cole was supposed to have every day. However, instead of giving it to Cole, he handed it straight to Evangeline. Cole looked like he was about to explode with jealousy. He turned away, refusing to even glance at them.

Without missing a beat, the housekeeper started in on Evangeline.

"Ms. Evangeline, this chicken soup

was specially made for Mr. Foster,

on Mr. Yale Foster's orders. However Mr. Foster complained about the spices and wouldn't touch the soup. We're at our wits' end here. Could you please try to convince Mr. Foster?"

Evangeline took the bowl and gave it a sniff.

There was a hint of spice alright. Nonetheless, it was so subtle, practically lost in the mix of chicken and herbs.

She

her grandfather was just

payorn to get the family t

being

more attention, to make

visit more often...

Tears threatened to spill from her eyes, but Evangeline fought them back, not wanting to break down in front of her grandpa.

She stirred the soup a few times, then tasted a spoonful.

The flavor was so good that it made her stomach rumble.

"Wow, this chicken soup is amazing! Is there any more? I'd love a bowl too."

The servant shot Evangeline a puzzled glance but, at her command, reluctantly headed into the kitchen to fetch the chicken soup.

In the quiet of the living room, it was just Evangeline and Cole.

Evangeline set the bowl in front of Cole. "Grandpa, now that we're

soup tastes too spicy when it smells so delicious?"

alone, why do you say the t

Cole sheepishly avoided her gaze. "It doesn't matter how good it smells, I just don't want to drink it."This belongs © NôvelDra/ma.Org.

"But you're not well, Grandpa. How will you get better if you don't have your chicken soup?"

Evangeline's brow furrowed as she gently coaxed him in a soft, soothing voice.