Chapter 239

Grace had already started treating Lauren like family—half a daughter-in-law, at least—just because her son had a thing for her. With that in mind, she couldn't help sidling closer, eager to get to know the girl better. But under Grace's straightforward, friendly gaze, Lauren felt a little on edge, like she didn't know where to look. "Ma'am, I'm not sure it's right for me to stay for dinner. Plus, Debbie mentioned we'd be going out later. She also has to pick up a friend from the airport this afternoon, so I don't think we'd make it in time." "Oh come on, it's blazing hot out there, where are you even thinking of going?" Grace let out a mock complaint. "Way too hot to be messing around outside. You girls have such delicate skin—what if you get sunburnt? And malls? Honestly, they're all the same no matter what city you're in. Heck, even abroad they look alike. She's probably been to better ones anyway. If you ask me, you'd be better off staying in my little orchard, picking some fruit a