On the other hand, Leena's eyes were wide with astonishment as she stared at the man. Something about what he said made her heart ache in a really sweet and good way. The simple remark he said was beyond any "I love you". It was simply worth more.

  "Enough of the chitchat. Kevin, take Leena upstairs. The long trip must have tired you. Leena, we have years ahead of us. Go to sleep now. Otherwise, your husband may think that I'm bullying you." Despite Claire's unwillingness to accept Leena, Shannon was pleased to see such a happy and satisfying marriage. She could finally set her mind at ease watching how her son and daughter-in-law couldn't seem to get enough of each other.

  "Okay. Leena, let's go." Kevin stood up and reached out to help Leena.

  "I'm fine. I don't feel tired. We rarely come back. Stay to chat with your mom." A mild blush appeared on Leena's cheeks as she disapproved Kevin's command for the first time. She might not have a child yet but she knew how a mother's concern for her child was. And Shannon was no exception.

  "Okay. I'll go upstairs to take a shower. I will join you after that." The man checked his watch. It was still early, and thus, he didn't force Leena to go upstairs with him. Plus, this could be a good opportunity for Leena to get closer to his Mom.

  "No need. Leena, go with Kevin. I'll see what your dad needs." Since their conversation turned out unpleasing due to Claire, Shannon simply pushed the boat with the current and let Leena go upstairs with Kevin. She knew that Leena didn't really mean to stay. Leena was just being her naturally kind self who

  one. How ridiculous was that!

  "I knew that you would speak for her! Since you like her so much and you can treat her as your daughter, then I'd better disappear!" Claire stomped her feet and then ran for the stairs. The way her mother scolded her made her hate Leena even more.

  Looking at Claire's angry silhouette, Shannon furrowed her brow and sighed inwardly. Somehow she felt uneasy and had a hunch that something bad might happen. This thought disturbed her. Thus, she remained staring at the stairs, lost in thought.

  Meanwhile, inside the bedroom, Kevin was taking a shower while Leena stood in the balcony. The curtains billowed in the breeze. What Claire said echoed in her ears. The sky was misty and she couldn't look far. She focused her eyes on the darkness as thoughts began to flood her mind. 'Everyone generally likes me. Why does Claire loathe me much at the first meeting? It really shatters my confidence. Sheesh! This is making me miss S City so much. I miss my family members who love me. Even Justin who often pisses me off seems so cute now.'