The CEO's Unplanned Heir novel Chapter 983

"Raines," she said with a twinkle in her eye, "I had the pastry chef whip up your all-time favorite, a batch of apple turnovers. Take a bite."

With a graceful gesture, she served a piece onto a silver plate and handed it to Raines.

"Thanks," he replied with a casual smile, picking up the silver fork and taking a bite of the turnover.

"Not bad at all, but honestly, nobody does apple turnovers like Lisbeth."

Aurelia swept her gaze over his fingers, noting the absence of any allergic reaction.

His words seemed to align perfectly with Lisbeth's abilities.

Was she just being overly sensitive?

It really was Raines who had returned.

Skyler carved himself a piece of steak and took a bite.

"I'm a huge fan of get-togethers. It's just so much fun when everyone's playing together," he said, glancing at Raines. "How about you, Raines? You into the whole party scene?"

Raines replied, "I'm more of an introvert. I'm okay hanging with family, but I'm not so great with strangers."

Skyler drew out his words thoughtfully. "I used to have social anxiety and couldn't handle mingling with folks I didn't know. Just seeing a stranger made me jittery and crave a lollipop. But after I got to Elysium, all that fear went away. Angel and Leopold always had my back, so nobody dared to mess with me."

He sipped his juice and continued, "I used to stutter, too. Got laughed at a lot. But look at me now. I've kicked that habit. You see how smoothly I talk? Even became a teacher."

Raines chuckled softly. "Skyler, you're clearly one of the good souls."

"Mhm," Skyler nodded. "I like being straightforward. My brother Geoffrey, he's the complete opposite. Every time I see you, I'm reminded of him. You guys have a similar build, all lean and such."

Raines bowed his head, slicing off another piece of steak. After finishing it, he said, "I too prefer simplicity, staying away from the noise and conflict, just living a quiet life."