Chapter 390 When Pregnancy Brain Strikes
After their meal in the small town, Ashley and Ethan caught a ride that took them deep into the mountains.
Upon arriving at their destination, Ashley spotted a familiar figure in the distance. "William!" she called out, waving.
William approached them, his gaze lingering on the man beside Ashley. He studied Ethan carefully—impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, handsome and refined, exuding an air of nobility and elegance. More striking was the powerful presence Ethan projected, almost regal, commanding instant respect.
Despite knowing full well who Ethan was, William feigned ignorance. "And who might this be?"
"William, I'd like you to meet my husband, Ethan," Ashley introduced.
William's expression revealed neither approval nor disapproval, just a proud, appraising look directed at Ethan.
Ethan gave a slight bow. "Pleased to meet you, William. I'm Ethan, Ashley's husband."
William acknowledged him with a curt nod before turning to Ashley. "Why are you just standing there?"
Ashley rolled her eyes. Despite the rural setting being typically mosquito-infested, William had cleverly planted herbs around his property that kept the insects away.
Noticing Ethan's questioning glance that seemed to ask, "Does William dislike me?", Ashley shot him a reassuring look that conveyed, "No, he's just elderly and can be moody—don't take it personally."
Their wordless communication showed their remarkable connection.
Just then, Liam appeared, helping John walk, with Mia beside them. Liam waved cheerfully. "Ethan! What a surprise! Come on in!"
"Let's go inside, honey," Ashley said, taking Ethan's hand as they entered the bamboo house.
While Ethan had met Liam several times before, this was his first encounter with John and Mia. Though he already suspected who they were, he looked to Ashley for a proper introduction.
Understanding his cue, Ashley said, "Honey, these are my parents."
Ethan's lips curved into a warm smile as he bowed politely and greeted them.
Mia, who knew of Ethan but had been blind until recently, was visibly pleased to finally see her daughter's handsome husband. "Ethan, we weren't expecting you today, so we don't have any gifts prepared. I'll make it up to you next time. Please take good care of Ashley."
Her words reminded Ethan of something. "Please, Mom, no need for formalities. Speaking of gifts, I just remembered I brought something for all of you."
He opened his suitcase and took out three packages. "William, this is for you."
William raised an eyebrow, pleasantly surprised to be the first recipient at this family gathering. Though clearly delighted, he maintained his proud demeanor. "Just your presence would have been enough—no need for such worldly offerings." Despite his words, he eagerly opened the gift box.
Ethan smiled and handed the second gift to Mia. "This is for you, Mom."
Mia beamed with approval, finding herself liking Ethan more by the minute. "Thank you."
Ethan presented the final package to John. "And this is for you, Dad."
John, whose dementia had significantly improved, now had a brighter look in his eyes. He accepted the gift with childlike excitement. "Thank you."
"What about me?" Liam asked, pretending to be offended.
Ethan gave him a sidelong glance. "I only brought gifts for the elders this time. I'll make it up to you next visit."
Liam raised an eyebrow. "Fair enough."
"When did you prepare these gifts?" Ashley asked, puzzled.
"I had them ready before we left," Ethan explained. "They were on the private jet—you probably didn't notice."
Ashley recalled falling asleep on the plane that morning, too exhausted to notice any packages. She blushed with embarrassment.
"This is my first time meeting William and my parents, and I forgot to remind you about bringing gifts," she said. "My mind has been so scattered lately."
Ethan gently ruffled her hair. "Don't worry about it. I can remember these courtesies without prompting."
Liam chuckled nearby, "Ashley, is that pregnancy brain kicking in?"
John joined in good-naturedly, "I guess so too!"
Ashley blushed deeper at their teasing. Ethan came to her defense. "Stop making fun of her."
William cleared his throat and fixed Ashley with a serious look. "Ashley, I need a word with you."
Ashley's embarrassment vanished instantly, replaced by solemnity as she recognized William's tone. "Of course."
"Ethan, make yourself comfortable with everyone. I'll be right back," she said authoritatively, not waiting for his response before following William toward the bamboo woods behind the house.
Watching her retreat, Ethan couldn't help but ask worriedly, "What's going on?"
Their sudden seriousness suggested something significant was afoot.
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