Chapter 8 No.8

Deloria's POV

I followed Gerald into the restaurant and looked around. Seeing the luxurious decor, I guessed that it must be expensive.

But the manager said that we were lucky customers and would offer us an 80% discount.

I looked at Gerald as he smiled at me. "So, what do you think? Are you gonna miss out on the discount?"

"Since that's the case, let's dine here." I nodded and said, "Thanks for the treat."

Soon, the exquisite dishes were served on the table. It was my first time having such a formal French meal.

Then, Gerald kindly helped me place the napkin and switched his plate with mine. He had sliced the steak for me.

I lifted my head and saw Maeve gazing at Gerald with a look of satisfaction.

It was also the first time that someone had taken such good care of me. I couldn't help feeling touched.

"Gerald, I used to strongly disagree with Deloria having a flash marriage. But after I saw you, I think she has made the right choice," Maeve put down her fork and said, "I hope you treat her well. She and I have relied on each other all these years, and I want nothing more than her happiness."

Maeve's words brought a lump to my throat.

Gerald solemnly promised, "I'll make sure Deloria leads a happy life."

I fixed my eyes on Gerald. Though we had only met thrice and didn't have much feelings for each other, his words and actions gave me a sense of security.

Gerald turned around and said to me, "Let's dig in. Or the food'll get cold. Tell me if you like it."

I quickly forked a piece of steak into my mouth. It was tender, juicy, and gave off the aroma of butter. "It's so delicious! I've never been to such a fancy place before. It's true that you get what you pay for," I exclaimed in amazement.

Gerald smiled and said, "Then I'll bring you here more often."

I was about to say no when a stranger suddenly walked up to our table.

He looked at Gerald in surprise and asked, "Gerald, why are you here?"

Gerald frowned, and Maeve asked curiously, "Who are you?"

"My name's Gavin." Gavin said awkwardly to Gerald, "I didn't mean to intrude. I was just passing by."

Gerald calmly introduced him to me and Maeve, "He's my cousin, Gavin."

Cousin?

I scrutinized Gavin and found him resemble Gerald.

"Turns out he's your cousin. He's as handsome as you," Maeve said kindly with a smile.

"Gerald, aren't you gonna introduce them to me?" Gavin sat down casually across from Gerald, his gaze wandering between me and Gerald.

"This is Deloria, my wife," Gerald said with composure. "This is Maeve, Deloria's mother."

"You're really married?!" Gavin cried out. Then he realized he was shouting too loud and immediately covered his mouth.

He looked at me and Maeve apologetically and said, "Deloria, Maeve, hello. Please forgive me for being rude."

"It's okay," I said with a grin. I could tell that Gavin meant no harm.

He then asked, "What are you going to do later? Need any help?"

"We do need some help. After lunch, we needa help Deloria and Maeve move." Gerald wiped his mouth with a napkin.

"Wait a sec, Gerald." Hearing he mention moving, I finally remembered what I wanted to say to Gerald.

I looked into his eyes and said, "Yesterday, Maeve told me she wouldn't stay with us. I'll rent a condo nearby for her."

"Maeve, there are enough rooms in my apartment. It's totally fine for you to live with us," Gerald said sincerely.

Maeve joked, "I get that you really want me to move in, but I don't wanna be a third wheel and see you being lovey-dovey all day."

"Gerald, do you know if there are any cheap apartments for rent in Silver Lake community?" I asked. "My budget is only 1,000 dollars. But I heard that rent near Silver Lake Community is at least 1,600. If there aren't any available, I'll have to look somewhere else."

"But it won't be as safe," Gerald said with a frown.

"Why don't you ask me?" Gavin suddenly spoke up. Noticing that we all fixed our gaze on him, he threw back his shoulders and said smugly, "There is a cheap one-bedroom apartment for rent right next to Gerald's place."

"Really?" I was a bit surprised. Then I said with confusion, "But it'll soon be leased out. I don't know if it's still available now."

"Relax." Gavin said confidently, "I know the landlord. I can help you get in touch with him."

"That's great! Thanks, Gavin," I expressed my gratitude with joy.

Gavin looked at Gerald and said with a smirk, "Gerald, I helped Deloria. Aren't you gonna thank me?"

"Don't worry. I will definitely thank you properly and make sure you are satisfied," Gerald spoke word by word.

Then, I seemed to see Gavin shiver.