Chapter 396 Like a Stern and Competent Mother
"William, don't worry. Your father didn't visit to see me today; his visit was intended for my mother-in-law, Ms. Mia. I'm merely here as a companion, nothing more," Ava assured him.
"Really?" William questioned, his voice laced with skepticism.
"Yes, really. If there were any complications, would I be here talking to you? No need to worry too much."
Upon hearing this, William exhaled a sigh of relief. "That's comforting, Ava. If there's ever a need for you to meet my father again, please inform me beforehand. I was completely unaware of today's meeting."
"William, there's no need for concern. Your father poses no threat to me. Speaking of your father, did you know that he..." Ava began, but trailed off.
"What about my father?" William asked.
Ava suddenly remembered that Mia was still beside her and quickly changed the subject. "William, let's talk about it next time we meet. No need to worry, it's nothing major. I'm fine now and ready to go home."
"Alright then. Give me a call once you're home, just to let me know you're safe."
"Sure, I will. Goodbye." Ava hung up the phone.
As she turned around, she noticed Mia's piercing gaze fixed on her, her eyes filled with unspoken words.
Feeling slightly uncomfortable under Mia's scrutiny, Ava managed a forced smile. "That was William. He's a tad concerned. He's aware of his father's intimidating demeanor."
"Is that so?" Mia responded, her tone indifferent. "Your friend seems kind."
Ava nodded in agreement. "He's an excellent friend. Despite our short acquaintance, he's been incredibly supportive. If someone shows me kindness, I can't help but reciprocate."
Just then, Ava's phone buzzed with a new message.
It was from William.
William: [Ava, you mentioned on the call that we should discuss my father's situation after we meet. So, when you get home today, may I visit you? Let's talk face to face.]
Mia cast a glance at Ava's phone screen.
"Did William send that? What did he say?" She questioned, having caught sight of the sender's name, "William," but unable to read the content of the message.
"He wants to meet today," Ava replied.
"Today?" Mia shook her head disapprovingly. "No, tell him you're busy today."
Ava looked at her, puzzled. "Mom, I don't recall having any plans this afternoon."
"You do now," Mia stated firmly. "Remember I mentioned wanting to have a serious discussion with Alexander and needing you present? I've decided it will be today. I fear we might end up in a heated argument, and I want you there for support."
"Today?" Ava echoed, realization dawning on her. "Mom, didn't you say you spent all of last night taking care of Alexander? If that's the case, you were with Alexander yesterday, and now you want to meet again today. Isn't that a bit excessive?"
"Are you unwilling?" Mia's voice rose a few decibels, her tone sharp.
Ava felt a wave of fear wash over her, akin to a child terrified of their parent's wrath. She couldn't fathom why, but she found herself more afraid of her former mother-in-law than anyone else.
More often than not, in this world, people inexplicably feared others, and this fear was often baseless.
"No, not at all. I'm more than willing," Ava quickly assured her.
"Then it's settled. I'll escort you home first, and after you've rested, don't venture out. Once I've coordinated with Alexander, I'll arrange for someone to fetch you. In the meantime, refrain from contacting your friend. If you cause any delay, I won't be pleased," Mia warned, her tone and demeanor stern.
Ava nodded in compliance. "Understood."
Mia was the epitome of a mother who was both strict and competent, a figure that commanded respect and obedience.
