When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 425

“Nelly, looks like you haven’t made the introductions yet.” Nicholas’s eyes landed on Carrie.

Carrie blinked her big eyes and greeted him politely, but maybe it was the suit or just Nicholas’s whole vibe that made her extra careful.

“Uncle Nicholas, I think it’d be better if you did the honors. Makes it feel more official,” Nelly said, standing up. She sounded respectful, but there was a teasing edge in her voice.

She knew Nicholas had never been her biggest fan, so she honestly didn’t know if he’d welcome her, even for April’s sake.

Nicholas gave Nelly a look she couldn’t quite read, but the moment he glanced over at April and Carrie, everything about him softened.

He got straight to the point. “April, no wonder you get along so well with Ms. Stewart. Turns out, we’re all family. No need to call her ‘auntie’ anymore. She’s kind of your cousin. And as for Carrie…”

Nicholas shook his head, looking both amused and resigned. The family tree was so twisted that two girls the same age ended up a generation apart.

“I guess, technically, you’re Carrie’s little aunt now.”

Carrie’s eyes lit up and April looked stunned. The two girls locked eyes, then ran straight into each other’s arms.

Carrie pinched April’s cheek, grinning. “April, now that I see you up close, you really do look a bit like me.”

“Carrie, this is so great—we’re actually family now.” April was a little more shy, giving a soft smile.

Watching the girls hit it off so fast, Nelly and Nicholas just exchanged a smile.

“Let’s go eat, then. Family dinner,” Nicholas said, leading the way. The two girls linked arms and raced toward the dining room, while Nicholas and Nelly followed slowly behind.

Nicholas kept glancing at Nelly, like he had something on his mind. Finally, Nelly spoke. “Uncle Nicholas, don’t worry. I really didn’t know you were connected to April. She and Carrie became friends on their own, just one of those lucky coincidences. Maybe it’s fate.”

They reached the dining room to find the girls already settled. Nicholas took the head seat, April sat beside him, and Carrie sat across from her.

Nelly was about to take the seat next to her daughter, but Carrie quickly stood up and moved over, leaving an empty spot between them.

Before Nelly could ask what was going on, a servant hurried in and whispered something to Nicholas. He glanced at Nelly, a mysterious smile tugging at his lips.

“Let him in,” Nicholas said quietly.

A strange feeling crept over Nelly. “Are we expecting someone else?”

“Yes. A very special guest.” Nicholas had barely finished speaking when a new figure stepped through the door, led in by a servant, making his way straight toward the dining room.