"My parents love spicy cuisine. My mom's an expert at this dish. You really should try it later," Axell remarked, bending down to offer her slippers.

Despite having a delicate stomach and struggling with spicy food, Jessie nodded to avoid disappointing him.

"Since it's your mom's cooking, I'm sure it'll be delicious."

As they conversed, a gruff voice emanated from the living room.

“Axell, is this Jessie?"

Axell responded promptly, "Yes, Dad. Let me introduce her. Jessie Green, my girlfriend."

Turning to Jessie, Axell continued, "And this is my father."

Jessie greeted Daley in a polite manner. "Hello, Mr. Calderon."

Daley Calderon, tall and resembling an older version of Axell, had rough, tan skin from years spent in the outdoors, lacking the scholarly demeanor.

Glancing briefly at Jessie, Daley returned his attention to the TV.

After a moment, he said, “Go help your mother in the kitchen. It's nearly dinner time, and we haven't got any food yet. By the way, can Jessie cook? Since Axell is busy with work, there should be someone at home to handle the cooking."

Jessie felt a pang of discomfort at Daley's remark, and Axell was also taken aback.

He hadn't anticipated his father's question and hastened to clarify, “Household chores are a shared responsibility. Whoever has the time can handle them."

Jessie mustered a smile, eager to support Axell and maintain harmony.

Rolling up her sleeves, she offered, “Then I'll assist your mother in the kitchen. You can enjoy TV with your father in the meanwhile."

Axell was visibly pleased. Planting a discreet kiss on her cheek, he whispered, "Thank you."

“Don't worry. My parents will stay in Duefron and help take care of our children in the future," he added.

Jessie clenched her slender fingers, pondering the implications.

While she had considered the dynamics after marriage, Axell's decision to have his parents stay long-term took her by surprise. It wasn't that she opposed contact with his parents, but dealing with Axell's father posed a challenge.

Jessie simply smiled, withholding any comment.