My 100th Rebirth a day before the Apocalypse novel Chapter 676

What the Winters didn't know, however, was that Kisha had already given Keith and the Aldens a heads-up beforehand. But hearing about it was one thing—seeing it unfold before their own eyes was an entirely different experience.

"Why don't you both sit down first and discuss your future plans as a couple?" Mrs. Winters suggested, gently urging Kisha and Duke into the room.

The room was modest, furnished with twin beds, a small sofa, and a coffee table where the old Patriarch sat, sipping tea. The old couple, along with Mr. and Mrs. Winters, were seated on the bed, exchanging glances as they observed the pair.

Duke, taking in the scene, first escorted Kisha to the sofa, ensuring she was comfortable as he poured her a cup of tea and offered her some snacks. Only after tending to her did he approach the old couple, giving them a gentle hug.

His movements were so natural and fluid that it caught everyone off guard—no one had ever expected to see this side of Duke.

But Duke didn't give them a chance to respond before speaking. "It's good to see you again, Grandpa, Grandma. It's been a while, and we brought plenty of gifts for you."

He spoke as if he had known Kisha's grandparents for years, effortlessly playing the role of a devoted grandson-in-law. His warm, considerate demeanor was a stark contrast to his usual self, and he even went as far as bringing them gifts.

The Patriarch, who had been quietly sipping his tea, nearly choked upon hearing his grandson's unexpectedly affectionate words.

It was hard to believe that the same man—who had always been cold and indifferent—was now so thoughtful and expressive toward someone else's grandparents.

Somehow, the old Patriarch couldn't help but feel wronged. "I never knew my beloved grandson would favor the new and forget the old. He's never treated me with such affection before—let alone been this gentle with me." He stared at Duke in disbelief, completely dumbfounded.

Even Duke's parents were caught off guard. His thoughtful gesture made their own visit seem lacking in comparison. Realizing they had come to meet the Aldens without bringing anything, a hint of embarrassment crept in—they hadn't even thought to bring a gift.

Bringing gifts when visiting in-laws was a matter of respect—especially when discussing marriage. Realizing they had overlooked this important gesture, they couldn't help but feel they hadn't done enough. Yet, Duke had effortlessly filled the gap, making up for their oversight.

It wasn't that they had simply forgotten—it was just that the world they once knew had crumbled, turning laws and customs into mere remnants of the past. Yet, despite the chaos, they still had the means and resources to uphold these traditions.

It was only in their flustered state that this small yet significant detail had slipped their minds. Seeing Duke step in so effortlessly, Mrs. Winters felt both grateful to her son and a little embarrassed as the family's little matriarch.

"No need for gifts. What truly matters is that you and our little girl have returned safe and sound," Grandma Aldens said with a warm smile, reaching out to gently clasp Duke's hand.

Her eyes shone with gratitude as she took in the young man before her. She had witnessed firsthand how Duke prioritized Kisha's well-being, tending to her with unwavering care before concerning himself with anything else.

He was thoughtful, respectful, and dependable—qualities she deeply valued. In that moment, a sense of peace settled over her, reassuring her that her precious granddaughter was in the right hands.

Grandpa Aldens opened his mouth to speak, but his expression had already soured. Just moments ago, he had been enjoying a pleasant conversation with the Winters and even the old Patriarch.

But the moment his eyes landed on Duke—that stinking brat—his mood took a sharp downturn.

He still couldn't get over the fact that this rascal had stolen his precious granddaughter so easily. It had barely been a month or so since they met, yet they were already calling each other husband and wife.

Everything had happened so fast, and to make matters worse, he and Grandma Aldens were the last to know about it.

The more he thought about it, the more reluctant he felt. Back in his day, even arranged marriages took longer to solidify than whatever whirlwind romance these two had.

The sheer speed of it all left him feeling bitter, sulking in quiet protest as he struggled to accept reality. _{freēwēbnovel.com}

'I nurtured and protected my precious flower, only for some stinking brat to come along and steal her away! I even kept her in a greenhouse, giving her the best environment so she'd have plenty of choices—but no, this brat swooped in and took her just like that. Hmph! Just you wait. He probably planned this all along, taking my little girl away just to coax her into becoming his wife. What a schemer!'