Right after speaking, she regretted it.

She didn't mean to downplay being a driver, and she knew Ian, a top scientist, wasn't meant for such a job. She worried her words might upset him.

But to her surprise, Ian just smiled and said, “Okay. Once I finish my scientific goals, I'll quit and become your personal driver. How's that sound?"

Julie's cheeks flushed, and she nervously fiddled with her clothes.

The car soon stopped outside Jenkins Manor. After bidding Ian farewell, she stepped out and made her way to Lemna Yard.

It was getting darker.

Julie was feeling really odd at that moment.

She recalled a TV show plot where a kid skipped school to hang out in an internet café. He only felt worried about facing his parents when he got home late at night.

But Julie herself was the parent. And here she was, wondering what she should say when Maria asked about her date.

If she honestly told Maria they just grabbed coffee and desserts that afternoon without any talk of starting a relationship, would Maria be somewhat disappointed?

Jesus! Julie's mind was in a daze. Having a relationship with Ian was something that never crossed her mind before. And they weren't exactly young anymore.

Lost in her thoughts and guesses, Julie found herself near Lemna Yard before she knew it.

Suddenly, she spotted three figures in the moonlight, under the lights.

It was Maria, Isla, and Grover, waiting for her.

Julie's surprise quickly turned into action as she hastened toward the trio.

"Are you all waiting for me?" Julie asked.

Today, the word "family" seemed to resonate differently with Julie.

Maria, smiling, gave a nod but remained silent.

She didn't inquire about Julie's date, which Julie found comforting.

Grover, with a grin, asked, “Madam, are you feeling hungry? Isla's got dinner ready for you."

Julie shook her head.

"No, I'm not hungry, but thanks."

It was a straightforward exchange, yet Julie sensed a shift in their demeanor after learning about her dinner with Ian. The atmosphere grew subtly complex.

"Let's head back to the house," Maria suggested.