The Ugly Wife’s Stunning Comeback novel Chapter 100

Max listened to Luke with an unreadable face. His tone was steady as he said, “So just because of her, you think it’s okay to judge your own family? To talk about your grandparents and elders like that?”

Luke looked right at him, silent.

Max went on, “It’s fine if you want to stand up for her, but the Hawthorne family isn’t here for you to dump your feelings on. You’re a Hawthorne too, you know. You’re not a kid anymore, Luke. You’re running your own company now. Try not to let your emotions take over everything you say and do.”

Luke’s fingers tightened and he dropped his gaze, lips pressed in a thin line. He didn’t say another word.

The room went quiet.

A moment later, a maid came up the stairs. “Sir, dinner’s ready.”

Max stretched out his legs and stood, picking up a bag and handing it to the maid. “Put this in my room.”

She took it with both hands and nodded. “Yes, sir.” Then she left.

Max noticed Luke still sitting there and gave him a look. “Why are you still sitting around?”

Luke slipped his phone into his pocket and stood up.

They went downstairs together to the dining room.

The table was filled with steaming dishes, and everyone’s face was glowing with happiness. Brysen had Anne in his arms. The once stern patriarch was all smiles, his wrinkled face soft with warmth. Miranda was playing with the baby, waving a toy in front of her. Anne let out a couple of sweet giggles, and laughter rippled through the whole room.

Maybe Anne could sense the excitement in the air, because she’d been good all day, no tears at all, just big smiles for everyone who played with her. Her happiness was contagious.

Colton handed Felicia a bank card. “There’s ten million in here, from selling the company. The money came in before the holiday.” He had received one hundred and fifty million in total, most of which was going straight into Greg’s business. He and Ava kept a little over twenty million for their retirement.

“You’re heading overseas for school soon. Think of this as an early gift. Take care of yourself out there,” he said.

Felicia smiled. “Thanks, Dad.”

After dinner, they all settled in front of the TV. Felicia’s phone kept buzzing. After Colton and Ava’s wedding, Anthony had made a small group chat for just the six of them. Now, everyone was sharing photos of their holiday feasts, and sending New Year wishes. Felicia had racked up almost a million in lucky money. She sent some back to the group, but it was nothing compared to the crazy amounts Savannah and Anthony were sending.

Then Felicia got a private message from Luke. He wished her happy new year.

She replied. Happy New Year.