Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled novel Chapter 689

After being turned down, Neil let out a heavy sigh, as if trying to exhale all the frustration and desire.

Irene wrapped herself tighter in the blanket, deliberately creating a buffer zone between her and Neil, and then settled in to continue her sleep.

"Babe, it's past midnight," Neil's voice broke the silence less than ten minutes later, carrying a hint of huskiness.

Just as Irene was drifting back to sleep, she felt a pair of hands breach the buffer zone, forcibly pulling her into a warm embrace.

"What are you doing? Neil, you—" Irene's protest was cut short by a passionate kiss that fogged her awakening clarity, leaving her no choice but to give in, hoping for some peace the rest of the night.

The room was filled with a suggestive atmosphere, and Irene hardly slept well for the rest of the night.

It wasn't until noon the next day that Irene woke up feeling completely out of sorts, while Neil was nowhere to be seen.

After a shower, Irene went downstairs and found Neil's figure.

Mitch and Stella had arrived at some point with their three kids, who were now playing with Irene's children in the living room, making the house lively.

Catching sight of Irene descending the stairs, Stella teased, "Well, well, Rena, you finally made it down. I know reunions can be exciting, but do take care of yourself!"

Irene shot Stella a look, her cheeks flushing as she hurriedly adjusted her collar to hide any marks that might give away the intensity of the previous night.

The two families gathered for a meal, and amidst the conversation, Stella brought up Karina, "Speaking of which, Karina got herself a top-notch lawyer for her defense. That woman really doesn't know when to quit, thinking she can turn the tables. Does she believe she can avoid jail time altogether?"

Hearing Karina's name made Irene glance at Neil, who was busily peeling corn for Serena and Brandon, seemingly oblivious to Stella's comment.

"Well, that's her prerogative," Irene responded, without delving further into the topic, knowing well that Karina's extradition back home didn't mean an easy escape from her crimes.

Despite the adults' lack of reaction, Hiram, who was sitting nearby, turned pale at the mention of Karina, the "mother" who had raised him, despite her cruel heart. It was a complex feeling for a child who naturally loves their parents unconditionally.

To spare Hiram discomfort, Irene quickly steered the conversation away from Karina.

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"In a couple of days, it'll be your dad's birthday. Should we prepare something in advance?" Neil suddenly suggested after the meal.