Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled novel Chapter 587

"Dad, you're going to live to be a hundred."

After a long silence, that was all I could say.

Even though the thought of life without my parents left me feeling utterly lost and panicked, I knew I couldn't lean on Russel for support. He wasn't mine to lean on.

Dad looked a bit surprised at first, but then he managed a resigned smile. "Living to be a hundred would be something, huh? Watching Serena and Brandon grow up, get married, and become your new pillars of strength. Then, your mom and I could rest easy, knowing you're in good hands."

"Don't talk like that. There's plenty of time left," I cut him off, not wanting to dwell on such a melancholic subject, especially not if it would lead us to talk about Russel again.

Dad, wise as he was, sensed my mood and tactfully dropped the subject.

After spending some time with Dad, Hiram crossed my mind. He was just a few floors away in the same hospital. It would be easy to visit him, but remembering how I hurt his feelings last time...

Better not. It would be cruel to give him hope.

As noon approached, Dad reminded me, ever so considerately, "Rena, don't forget to call Russel. He's been so busy yet makes time to visit me now and then. You should treat him well on my behalf!"

"Alright, alright, I'll call him in a bit," I responded promptly.

But Dad seemed to think I was brushing him off. He insisted I call Russel right then and there to arrange a lunch meeting.

Reluctantly, I dialed Russel's number. He picked up quickly. "Hello?"

"Russel, are you around the hospital? I know a place nearby with great food. Want to check it out?" I glanced at Dad, who looked back at me with a satisfied nod.

"Yeah, send me the address. I should be there in fifteen minutes," Russel's voice was calm, soothing even.

"Okay." I hung up, then turned to Dad, "Happy now? I'm about to treat your beloved Russel to a feast, ensuring he won't leave hungry!"

Dad chuckled. "That's my girl. Russel's a good guy; keeping him as a friend wouldn't hurt."

Little did my parents know their subtle matchmaking attempts. If I played along, becoming casual friends with Russel, they might slowly start believing that not only could we be friends, but we could also revive our past relationship.

Grabbing my bag, I left the room to meet Russel for lunch, only then realizing a problem.

Which nearby place had great food again?

I'd blurted out an invitation without knowing any local restaurants. So, I hastily searched on my phone for a popular spot, sent Russel the address, and headed over.

Russel arrived before me. He was browsing his phone when I walked in, frowning slightly.

"Gotten any idea what you'd like to eat?" I greeted him.