Brenton was smooth. When he heard Jared's words, he immediately said, "It’s an honor for us to meet two big shots like you! How could we dare ask you for anything?"
"The daring ones aren't here today!" someone chimed in.
Everyone burst into laughter again, knowing that he was referring to Michelle.
Another person raised an objection. "What you said is not right. Everyone runs into difficulties at some point. It's not like we're asking you to stir up trouble for no reason and then ask these two gentlemen to clean up after you. That's just asking for trouble."
Everyone nodded in agreement. I knew deep down that he was speaking to everyone's heart.
The classmate continued, "But if we need to overcome any difficulties, they’ll stand up for us, right?"
Jared nodded gently, then looked at Atlas.
Atlas said, "That's right!"
This classmate continued enthusiastically, "You see, I'm right! Looks like fate has smiled on us. We’re borrowing Chloe and Ivanna’s glory. We have someone to rely on now."
"To be honest, it's nice to know that we have a connection with you two. We'll be counting on you to help us if we run into any problems in the future."
"Think about it. If Mr. Atlas wasn't around to help Beatrice, she would have been in big trouble."
His words resonated with everyone, and they all nodded in agreement.
"Unforeseen events can happen at any time. Who knows when we’ll be the next victims? So, let's raise a toast to Mr. Atlas and Mr. Jared! Thank you for treating us like family. We're truly grateful."
Everyone stood up, filled their glasses, and raised them to Atlas and Jared.
They didn't hesitate, and downed their glasses in one gulp!
This was the first time I had ever seen Atlas drink so heartily.
Dinner was a lively occasion. Atlas and Jared didn't rush to leave, but lingered, chatting with everyone.
Ivanna looked at Beatrice and said, "You should focus on your own life now that everything has settled down. I used to think that my career was important, but now I understand that being in love and being loved is true happiness for a woman."
She spoke from experience to Beatrice about the philosophy of life. Ever since Jared found out she was pregnant, he didn't allow her to work anymore. Now, she was peacefully focused on raising the baby.
Ivanna leaned against the sofa with a bulging belly and continued to teach Beatrice the philosophy of life. "Having a successful career or a bright future without someone who loves you by your side is meaningless. Even if you have many relatives, they can't compare to one person who truly cares for you. Don't you agree, Chloe?"
"That’s right!" I echoed, wanting to encourage Ivanna's efforts.
"In fact, when Chloe was pregnant with her first baby, she was content and focused on raising the baby. At that time, I didn't approve. But now I finally understand."
"You don’t usually understand anything so deeply," I teased.
"But Chloe was so tired and worked so hard back then. You shouldn't be like that, Beatrice. Losing yourself is the biggest failure. You should find someone who will cherish you, quickly."
"It's not that easy. I'm scared. Once bitten, twice shy!" Beatrice joked self-deprecatingly.
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