The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 77

Just then, the sound of laughter and voices caught the attention of the kids upstairs. One by one, the four children dashed out of their rooms and, catching sight of their grandparents, squealed with delight. “Grandpa! Grandma!”

George and Mrs. Thomson’s faces lit up in an instant. They quickly set down what they were carrying, arms wide open to welcome their precious grandchildren.

The kids dove into their grandparents’ embrace, one after another, giggling as George and Mrs. Thomson showered them with kisses and hugs, their joy overflowing. Mrs. Thomson’s eyes grew misty as she looked at the little ones, her voice thick with emotion and affection. “Oh, my sweethearts, Grandma missed you so much. Come give me a kiss!”

Each child planted a big kiss on her cheek, the room echoing with soft smacking sounds.

Aiden looked up, innocent eyes shining. “Grandma, when you missed us, did you cuddle our pictures at night the way I cuddle yours?”

Mrs. Thomson laughed, her eyes sparkling with unshed tears. She nodded, squeezing his little hand. “Yes, darling, every night. I hug your photos just like you’re right beside me.”

Ethan tugged on her sleeve, curiosity written all over his face. “Grandma, did you bring us any treats?”

She pinched his cheek, grinning. “Of course! I brought all sorts of goodies, plus new clothes and toys. You can pick out what you like in a bit.”

“Yay!” Noah and Evan chimed in, circling around their grandparents, peppering them with questions about their trip and how they’d been. For a moment, the whole house—Sunset Villa Estates—overflowed with warmth and laughter.

Just then, Crystal stepped out of the car, dressed in a stylish pink dress. There was a hint of embarrassment in her expression—she was clearly trying to make an effort.

The laughter faded as soon as she appeared.

Rebecca gently told the kids to go play inside. The boys, obedient as ever, scampered off.

Crystal’s face was tinged with remorse and anxiety. She approached Rebecca, her voice trembling, “Rebecca, I’m so sorry for what happened the other day. Will you forgive me?”

Her tears were genuine, her apology heartfelt—at least, on the surface.

But Rebecca knew Crystal wasn’t telling the whole truth. Sure, she was jealous of her parents’ love, but Rebecca understood the real reason was Crystal’s bitterness that she, not Crystal, was marrying Dylan.

If Crystal wasn’t going to admit it, Rebecca saw no need to push.

Her voice was cool. “Come inside.”

At once, Crystal wiped her tears and followed Rebecca into the house.

As soon as they stepped in, Crystal’s eyes darted curiously around the living room. She turned to Rebecca, trying to sound casual. “So, where’s your husband? Is he not home?”