"Mom, don't you think you're particularly enthusiastic about Shelly's family?" Layla sat beside her, watching her busy mother with a smile. "They're not even your in-laws yet! You haven't even mentioned sending something to my in-laws."
Avery glanced at her daughter. "Would your in-laws appreciate these snacks? The reason I'm more concerned about Shelly's family is because Shelly's mother had surgery recently and needs to eat well for her recovery. Besides, Shelly comes from a less fortunate background, so it's only right for me to take care of them. It's a different case with your in-laws. They're so wealthy, so why would they need my help?"
Layla was not genuinely blaming her mother for being biased and only meant to tease Avery. "If Shelly and my brother really become a couple, I'll have Shelly give you a commemorative plaque that says 'Best Mother-in-law!'" Layla continued to tease her mother. "You're truly the best in-law!"
"Sure! I'll appreciate whatever Shelly gives me." Avery set aside the things she was going to bring to Shelly's parents and then looked at Robert. "Elliot, why don't you and the driver take these things over?"
Robert scratched his head. "Sure! But Mom, should we call them first to let them know we're coming? I'm afraid I might startle them if I show up without warning."
"I don't have Shelly's mother's phone number." Avery had visited Mrs. Taylor at the hospital primarily to inquire about her health, so she had forgotten to ask for her contact information. "Shelly is probably on her way out now, so I shouldn't disturb her. Let's just deliver the gifts and say it's a gesture from us."
Robert nodded.
"If they invite you to have a meal, you can dine with them and then come back," Avery said, fearing that her son might refuse Shelly's parent's offer and hurt their feelings. From their conversation with Mrs. Taylor, Avery could sense that she was a very simple and kind person.
Avery was particularly empathetic towards others, so she knew that if Mrs. Taylor invited Robert to join them for a meal and he declined, she might feel that he looks down on them.
"Got it, Mom. Is there anything else you want me to do?" Robert asked.
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