Chapter 205
As they strolled through the lively theme park, Rain’s eyes lit up when she spotted a row of colorful stuffed animals at one of the game stalls.
“Oh! Look at those!” she exclaimed, nudging Alexander’s arm. “I’ve always wanted to win one of those huge stuffed toys p>
Alexander followed her gaze to the display of plush prizes. A faint smile played on his lips as he watched her excitement. “Which one do you want?” he asked.
Rain pointed to an oversized panda bear that seemed almost too big to carry. “That one,” she said with a grin. “But fair warning, these games are usually impossible to win.” That was a bit of an overstatement, especially for someone as talented as Alexander. She probably could have won it herself if she tried but it felt much sweeter having Alexander win it just for her.
Alexander’s smirk deepened as he stepped up to the booth. “Watch and learn,” he teased, grabbing a few darts from the attendant. He aimed with steady precision, hitting the target with ease on his first try.
The booth attendant blinked in surprise, and Rain gasped, clasping her hands together as Alexander continued, each throw as accurate as the last. Within moments, he’d won enough points to claim the teddy bear.
When he handed it over to her, Rain’s face lit up. “I can’t believe it! You actually did it p>
He chuckled, watching her hug the bear as though it were a priceless treasure. “I told you I’d get you your favorite things p>
Rain looked up at him, her eyes shining. “You’re full of surprises, you know that p>
He leaned down, brushing a soft kiss on her forehead. “Only for you p>
Rain felt like she was getting a sugar rush from Alexander’s endless sweetness, cheekiness, and occasional cringiness. But she loved every moment of it, savoring it and secretly hoping for more sweet “overdoses” to come!
As the sun set and the day wound down, both Rain and Alexander were exhausted but content. “Where do you want to have dinner?” Alexander asked.
“Let’s head back home,” Rain replied with a warm smile. “I miss father-in-law, and I have so much to tell him! He’ll be thrilled to hear how well you’re working on our relationship.” She knew Rock would be proud of his son’s efforts in making their bond stronger.
Alexander nodded, smiling. “Yeah, let’s go back. Honestly, I’ve been thinking of taking a week off to spend with him. We’ll have the Hunting Event soon, but it would be nice to plan a separate vacation just for the family he cares about the most p>
“Like a family reunion?” Rain’s eyes lit up. “That sounds amazing. Let’s make it happen. I’m sure he’ll love that idea p>
On the drive home, Rain leaned back, her curiosity piqued. “About the Hunting Event… Can you tell me more about it p>
Alexander smiled, glancing over at her. “Alright. Five main families participate each year: ours, of course; the Lanes, like Uncle Darwin and Sebastian, whom you’ve met. You’ll meet the others soon. Then there’s the Crawfords, including Eric and his father, Uncle James. You’ve met them, but you’ll see more family members as well. Next are the Kents, Aunt Vernice’s family. And finally, the Cartiers p>
Rain nodded, absorbing the information as Alexander continued. “It’s mandatory for immediate family members to attend. If anyone misses it without a valid reason, there’s a fine, set by the host family of the year. Close friends and other relatives can come, too, if they’d like p>
“So that means Sanya can come?” Rain asked eagerly, already picturing how much fun it would be to have her best friend there too.
“Yes, she can,” Alexander chuckled. “She’s William’s girlfriend, after all. We’ll just need to let the Cartiers know who we’re bringing aside from Dad’s immediate family. Actually, Dad loves bringing Aunt Ava and Alyssa along for events like this too p>
He gave her a gentle kiss on the head and added, “Oh, and speaking of family gatherings, Dad arranged a lunch at the mansion this Sunday to introduce you formally to everyone p>
Rain’s eyes lit up at the thought. “Really? That’ll be perfect. I’ll finally get to meet everyone p>
Alexander smiled, holding her hand. “Yes. And knowing Dad, he’s probably more excited than anyone to make sure you feel welcomed p>
At Lancaster Ancestral Mansion
Rock was relaxing with William, Ben, and Melanie in the living area, watching the news and chatting occasionally, when his phone rang.
“The lovebirds are joining us for dinner. Ben, let Chef Philip know to make their favorites,” Rock announced after ending the call with Alexander.
“Oh, I should stay for dinner too, then!” William declared with a grin.
“Don’t you have an operation to oversee at GIS?” Rock asked, raising an eyebrow.
William shrugged, leaning back. “That can wait. Brandon’s managing things well, and, honestly, what’s more important than a family dinner?” He chuckled, adding with a teasing glance at Rock, “Sounds like my brother is doing pretty well these days. I wouldn’t be surprised if we hear news of a little Lancaster on the way soon p>
Rock chuckled, amused by the banter. While he’d be thrilled at the news of grandchildren, his biggest wish was for Alexander and Rain to build a solid, lasting relationship. A foundation that would help them weather any storms together.
“How about you, huh? I keep reminding you not to play around,” Rock said, his voice firm. “Yes, I’m eager for you and Alexander to settle down, but that doesn’t mean you should be playing games. Sanya is Rain’s best friend p>
William shrugged, a hint of a smile on his lips. “Who says I’m playing, Dad? I’m dead serious. I really like her. She’s not like the other women who flutter their eyelashes at me, trying to show me only their good sides. Sanya is different. She doesn’t care if I see her at her worst. She doesn’t bother to impress me, and most of the time, she’s grumpy with me p>
Rock raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “So, you like her because she’s grumpy p>
William chuckled. “Pretty much. It’s refreshing. With her, I can be myself without any pretenses p>
Just then, a helper entered the room, looking a bit tense. “Sir Rock, Mr. Tim Clayton is here with his wife and daughter. They’ve requested to speak with Ms. Rain and Ms. Melanie p>
The atmosphere shifted immediately. Rock’s expression hardened slightly, and he exchanged a knowing glance with William.