Karl's smile widened. "It's my pleasure. Besides, I had to take advantage of the situation a bit.”

“Take advantage of me?" Maggie echoed, momentarily perplexed.

“Of course. I introduced you as my girlfriend. Isn't that taking advantage of you?" Karl quipped playfully, his tone lighthearted.

Maggie looked at him, touched by his kindness.

Karl's words dispelled any lingering discomfort she felt.

"Let's go meet your mom," Karl suggested, breaking the momentary silence.

Maggie's smile faltered at the mention of her parents, and she remained silent.

She hadn't been in contact with her parents lately, but her brother kept her informed about family matters.

Ever since conflicts arose between her uncle Blake's family and hers, her parents faced criticism from other relatives and friends aligned with Blake's family.

Despite her parents’ hardships, they continued to defer to Blake's family, making Maggie feel responsible for their troubles.

She couldn't comprehend their actions.

Lost in her thoughts, Maggie was startled by the approach of a group of people calling her name.

"Maggie!" they exclaimed.

Maggie recognized the woman as her uncle Blake's wife, Reyna.

Behind Reyna were her younger brother, her sister-in-law and Cyrus.

Reyna glared at Maggie with venom that it seemed she might attack her on the spot.

A group formed a barrier in front of Maggie, blocking her path.

Seeing their hostile approach, Karl instinctively stepped in front of Maggie, his expression alert.

Reyna scrutinized Karl and turned to Cyrus. “Is this Maggie's new partner?"

Cyrus said, "Yes. He claims to be Maggie's boyfriend."