Emma opened the door and saw, as expected, that it was Nathan.
“Why did you bring so much? You didn’t have to buy all this…”
She took a few steps back, and Nathan moved into the house.
“I came to see your mother, so of course, I had to bring some gifts.”
Emma didn't approve of him bringing so many presents, but she didn't say much more. She bent down, opened the shoe cabinet, and took out the pair of men's slippers she had bought for Nathan’s last visit, placing them in front of him.
“Thanks.”
Nathan smiled at Emma, then crouched down to change his shoes.
Hearing the noise, Karen Hayes hurried out of the kitchen. She had ribs simmering on the stove and couldn't be away for long, but as the mother of the house, she felt it was her duty to welcome their guest.
“Oh, Nathan! Why do you bring so many things every time you come to visit!”
Karen came over, smiling, and politely protested, “I had Emma invite you over as a guest. I can't have you spending so much money…”
“It’s nothing, Mrs. Hayes. It wasn’t much.”
Nathan smiled, finished changing his shoes, and stood up to walk into the house. “Are you still cooking? If there’s anything I can do to help, please just let me know.”
“I can manage by myself! You and Emma go have fun. I’ve got the kitchen covered!”
There was no way she was going to let a guest help with the work, so Karen quickly refused.
But Nathan had already taken off his overcoat. While reassuring Karen, he turned to Emma and asked, “Where can I put my coat?”
“I’ll take it.”
Emma pursed her lips and naturally took the coat from Nathan.
Nathan didn't object, just smiled faintly as she took it.

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