Out of Ashes Into His Heart novel Chapter 82

"You brat, did you talk about me behind my back again on the way here?" Rose shot Tom a pretend glare before taking my hand in hers.

She gave me a thorough once-over, her eyes sparkling with approval and her smile so wide it curved her eyes into crescents.

"You're Gracie, right?"

I nodded quickly.

Rose patted my hand gently, her expression turning heartfelt.

"You saved my life last time. If it weren't for you, this old bag of bones might not have made it. Afterward, I told Tom to go find you so that I could thank you in person, but he kept saying he didn't have time."

Then, with a glance at Tom, her lips pursed in mock annoyance.

"And what did he do instead? This rascal enlisted in the army! Before I knew it, three whole years had gone by. It wasn't until a few days ago that he finally admitted he wanted to bring you over…"

I hadn't realized Rose had tried to track me down after what happened.

Thinking back, it made sense why Tom had gone out of his way to look out for me during his university days. It was probably because of this incident.

At the time, though, that attention had caused Dawn to completely misinterpret things. She assumed Tom had feelings for me.

Looking back now, it was almost laughable. What a massive misunderstanding that had been.

"Oh, right. I forgot to ask. How long have you and Tom been together?" Rose's sudden question pulled me out of my thoughts.

We had gone over our story beforehand, so I answered smoothly, "One month."

At this, her expression shifted slightly as if she had just pieced together a puzzle. Her smile widened. "So, that's why Tom quit the military. It was because of you!"

I forced a shy smile, pretending to accept the heavy implication without objection. Before coming here, I'd spent a lot of time thinking about how to play my role.

I had decided that presenting myself as a simple, quiet woman—the type who could effortlessly win over his family—would be my safest bet.

I stood silently to the side, marveling at the exchange. I had heard Gavin mention before how much Rose doted on Tom, her favorite grandson.

At the time, I thought he was exaggerating for effect, but now, I could see just how true his words were.

Tom raised an eyebrow, and for the first time since we had walked into the house, the hard edge in his expression softened. His lips curved into a faint smile as he said, "Well, isn't that because you taught me well, Grandma? Of course, I have to protect my wife!"

The word "wife" landed like a thunderclap, making my ears burn instantly.

Even though I knew it was all part of the act, my heart betrayed me, pounding harder and faster than it should have.

"Cheeky brat!" Rose laughed, her whole face lighting up with delight.

But before the moment could settle, Elena suddenly chimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief, "So, Tom, when are you two planning to get married?"

In an instant, the entire living room fell dead silent.