Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1319

"She's living the life of a rich heiress, like a wealthy socialite!" Judith exclaimed.

Through the window, Zephyr and Esther quickly glanced down. They indeed saw their daughter getting out of the Ferrari with shopping bags. She looked radiant, free of any sign of suffering or mistreatment.

Zephyr and Esther exchanged surprised glances, both somewhat stunned. This was far different from what they had imagined.

Oscar pulled back his gaze, burning with jealousy, and sneered, "Sure, she looks glamorous on the surface, but it's just a show put on for your benefit! I've seen this kind of thing many times—people living miserable lives behind closed doors, but when they meet family, they suddenly act wealthy and fashionable. That Ferrari might even be rented, just to deceive you both!"

When Esther heard this, her momentarily relieved heart tensed up again. She asked worriedly, "Zephyr, could it really be as Oscar says?"

Zephyr's expression was hesitant, clearly unsure if Oscar's assessment was accurate. However, as the head of the family, he kept his cool and replied firmly, "Let's have the kitchen start serving the meal. It doesn't matter what the situation is now. Soon enough, our dear daughter will be free again."

…

Downstairs at the hotel, Andrew adjusted his suit and smiled, "It's strange today, I'm actually feeling a bit nervous!"

Aspen huffed. "You're the one who wanted to meet my parents, so why are you nervous? Are you afraid they'll find out you've mistreated me, that you haven't been good to me?"

Andrew shrugged and replied, "You know very well how I've treated you. Besides, I'm not really afraid of the Stevens family from Bridgefields!"

Aspen pouted. "Then what are you nervous about?"

Andrew smiled and said, "Well, I'm meeting your parents, aren't I? It's like a new son-in-law meeting his in-laws for the first time. Don't you think it's normal for me to be a little nervous?"