Chapter 5: Family Tables and Fresh Starts

When I reached the living room, Grandpa and Chase were chatting happily.

The sight made me smile—two generations, worlds apart, finding common ground.

Chase looked at Grandpa with open admiration, which didn’t surprise me at all.

Grandpa’s wonderful—who wouldn’t like him?

He had that rare gift of making everyone feel at home, no matter where they came from.

“Mitch—”

The moment Grandpa saw me, his eyes lit up. He reached out, smiling, “Come closer, Mitch. These old eyes can’t see you from far away.”

His voice was warm, full of love. I hurried over, heart pounding with happiness.

I hurried over and let him look me over.

He took my hands in his, squeezing them tight. I could see the pride and relief in his eyes. Felt like coming home.

After a while, Grandpa finally spoke softly. “You’ve grown taller... and thinner.”

His voice was tinged with worry, but also pride. I stood up straighter, hoping to ease his mind.

“Don’t worry, Grandpa. Now that I’m back, I’ll eat more and get back to how I was.”

I tried to reassure him, but inside I felt sad.

It’s not that I’ve grown—it’s that Grandpa’s getting old, shrinking with time. I used to look up at him; now he has to look up a little at me.

I blinked back tears, determined not to let him see how much it hurt.

“Good, good. Eat plenty.” Grandpa nodded, smiling. “When you get married, you’ll be all plump and handsome!”

What do you mean, ‘plump and handsome’? I’m not a piglet. But when Grandpa mentioned my wedding, it swept away my sadness. I perked up, ears straining, hoping he’d say more.

I grinned, nudging him playfully. “Just wait, Grandpa—you’ll see. I’ll be the handsomest groom in Silver Hollow.”

“Such promise!” Grandpa tapped my forehead, pretending to scold, but then he straightened proudly, looking calm and unhurried. “I keep my word. Everything’s ready for you. I sent word to your father early—he’ll be back soon.”

The pride in his voice was unmistakable. He’d been planning this for months, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful.

I helped Grandpa sit, eagerly massaging his shoulders, grinning as I flattered him. Anything to make him smile.

He chuckled, shaking his head. “Just lucky, that’s all.”

“How could I know that?”

Grandpa closed his eyes, enjoying the massage. “I just wanted your father to come back sooner. If you came back early, great—if not, your grandma and I would wait here with him.”

His voice was soft, almost wistful. I squeezed his shoulder, letting him know I understood. He didn’t have to say it.

“...So you could get married sooner, and my little Mitch wouldn’t have to wait.”

He smiled, eyes twinkling. I felt a surge of love for him, stronger than ever.

Hearing that, I massaged Grandpa’s legs even more diligently, remembering to thank him with Taylor. “Grandpa, you’re so good to me. On my wedding day, I’ll bring Taylor to bow to you and Grandma.”

I glanced at Taylor, who smiled back, his eyes shining with happiness.

“All right, all right!” Grandpa stopped me from overdoing it. “You’ve been traveling for days—don’t wear yourself out.”

He patted my hand, shooing me away with a smile. Couldn’t help but laugh.

Then he started shooing us away. “Chase just arrived. Show him around. Silver Hollow is lively these days—you and Henry are the hosts, so don’t neglect your guest.”

He winked at me, and I grinned, feeling like a kid again.

Of course I obeyed, signaling Zach and Chase to come over. They joined me in bowing and taking our leave.

We bowed, the old-fashioned way, before heading out into the hallway.

We’d barely stepped out when Grandpa called after us, “...Remember to have dinner with Chase in the guest room tonight. Your grandma is looking forward to seeing you!” He never misses a beat.

I called back, “We’ll be there, Grandpa!” Zach echoed me, and Chase just smiled, looking a little overwhelmed by all the warmth.

Zach and I both promised and left the living room.

We exchanged a look—home really was the best place to be.

It was getting late, so we decided to show Chase around the house first and go out on the town tomorrow.

The sun was setting, casting long shadows across the floor. I pointed out all the little details—family photos, old trophies, the spot where I’d tripped and broken my arm as a kid.

Chase didn’t mind, following us as we wandered.

He seemed to soak it all in, eyes wide with curiosity. I could tell he felt at home here, even if he’d never admit it.

We spent nearly two hours exploring, but most of that was in my father’s den.

The den was a museum of sorts—wall-to-wall with hunting trophies, old rifles, and shelves stacked with books and mementos. You could get lost in here.

All kinds of hunting trophies and old rifles dazzled Chase.

He ran his fingers over the polished wood, eyes shining. “I’ve never seen so many in one place,” he whispered, awestruck. Like a kid in a candy store.

I patted my chest, showing off. “Everything in here was brought back by my father from his trips. You don’t have a keepsake yet, so pick one out today.”

I gestured grandly, like I was giving away treasure. Zach rolled his eyes, but didn’t argue.

Chase hesitated.

He looked torn, glancing from me to Zach, unsure if he should accept.

“Mr. Song isn’t back yet...”

He trailed off, clearly worried about overstepping.

“Just pick!” Zach waved him off and started selecting things for him. “My uncle is the kindest man—he won’t mind.”

Zach handed him a small, carved whistle, then a compass, piling things into his arms until Chase laughed and put them all back except for one.

“Exactly!”

I nodded, joining in. “Don’t worry. My father’s always generous. He might even take you to pick one out himself when he gets back!”

I winked, hoping to put him at ease.

That wasn’t just talk—my father always looked after hardworking young men, especially those from tough backgrounds.

He’d taken in more than one lost soul over the years, never asking for anything in return.

He always said things were made to be used. Letting these trophies gather dust was a waste—they should be put to use by the right people. Waste not, want not. That was his motto.

After much searching, Chase finally settled on a heavy hunting knife, clearly reluctant to put it down.

He turned it over in his hands, running his thumb along the worn leather grip. I could tell it meant something to him. Sometimes, a little thing can mean the world.

I generously gifted it to him on my father’s behalf. I must admit, I have a real knack for being a spendthrift young master sometimes. Good thing Taylor keeps me in line.

Zach snorted, but I ignored him. Seeing Chase smile was worth it.

But with Taylor being so good at managing the household, I won’t have to worry about going hungry in the future.

I grinned, thinking of all the meals Taylor had made from scraps, turning nothing into something delicious.

Speaking of Taylor, I couldn’t help but start bragging to Chase.

Clearing my throat, I looked at him seriously. “Chase, it’s about time you settled down too. If you find a girl you like, be sure to let Lord Grant know.” Time for some friendly advice.

Chase was still focused on the knife, nodding carelessly. “I will... but there’s no rush. Marriage is such a hassle.” Kids these days.

He shrugged, like he had all the time in the world.

“Come on!” Finally, I had my chance to disagree. “What’s so troublesome about it?”

I threw my hands up, feigning exasperation. “It’s the best thing you’ll ever do!”

“I’m getting married in a few days. Do I look like I mind?”

I puffed out my chest, doing my best impression of a proud groom.

I patted his shoulder, speaking earnestly. “...You might not find someone as gentle, capable, and kind-hearted as my spouse, but everyone needs to settle down eventually...”

I glanced at Taylor, who just shook his head, smiling at my antics.

“That’s not—” Chase interrupted, looking puzzled. “Why do I feel like you’re making fun of me?”

His eyes narrowed, but there was a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

Zach snorted. “You’re a grown man, but you still act like a kid, always eager to brag when you have something nice.”

Zach elbowed me, but I just grinned wider.

Chase had no comeback. After a while, he muttered, “...I bet my brother never expected someone in Silver Hollow would start nagging me about marriage.”

He shook his head, but there was no heat in it. I could tell he felt at home.

Even after being called out, I didn’t feel embarrassed. My Taylor really is the best. No shame in loving out loud.

I squeezed Taylor’s hand under the table, grateful for everything we had.

When he saw Taylor at the dinner that night, he’d understand.

I was sure of it. Taylor had a way of winning people over, just by being himself.

When we brought Chase to the guest room, Grandma was giving Grandpa the cold shoulder, chatting only with Taylor and refusing to speak to him.

She sat with her arms crossed, lips pursed, but her eyes softened as soon as she saw me. Couldn’t stay mad at me for long.

At first, I didn’t know why. I greeted Grandma happily, and she looked like she was about to cry as she reached for me. “My precious Mitch, Grandma finally got you back! Come here, let me have a good look at you!”

Her voice trembled, and I rushed to her side, wrapping my arms around her.

She looked like she might burst into tears, so I hurried over, knelt at her side, snuggled up, and gently wiped her tears with my sleeve. Didn’t care who was watching. “Grandma, I’m home.”

Her hand trembled as she cupped my cheek, and I pressed my face into her palm, breathing in the scent of her familiar perfume.

“...That’s good, that’s good.” Grandma stroked my face with her dry, wrinkled hand, sobbing. “You went so far away on your own—how could I not worry?”

She sniffled, dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief. I hugged her tighter, wishing I could take away all her worries.

“Carol, don’t cry—” Grandpa tried to jump in, but Grandma snapped, “You be quiet!”

Her face darkened with anger. “When Mitch came home, you ran ahead and didn’t even call for me, so I only just now saw my precious grandchild...” Grandpa looked like he wanted to disappear.

She glared at him, and Grandpa looked down, chastened.

She started crying again. Home at last.

Grandpa looked a little aggrieved and mumbled, “...You finally got a good nap today—I couldn’t bear to wake you.”

He shuffled his feet, hands clasped behind his back, looking every bit the guilty husband.

“If it meant seeing Kyle sooner, I’d gladly skip the nap!”

Grandma shot back, still upset.

She sniffed, but I could see the corners of her mouth twitching. She’d forgive him soon enough.

“Wait—” I caught something in Grandpa’s words and stared at Grandma. “Since I left, you haven’t had a single good rest?”

My voice was sharper than I intended, but I couldn’t help it. I hated the thought of her losing sleep over me.

Grandma’s bluster vanished. She stopped scolding Grandpa and wouldn’t meet my eyes, looking thoroughly guilty.

She fidgeted with her handkerchief, cheeks turning pink.

Sometimes, Grandma can be just as stubborn as a child. Guess it runs in the family.

I smiled, shaking my head. Family—can’t live with them, can’t live without them.

“When I left, what did you promise me?” I pinched the bridge of my nose, recalling the scene. “You said, ‘Don’t worry, Mitch. I’ll take good care of myself and not overdo it.’ That’s the only reason I left at ease. So why didn’t you keep your word?”

I tried to sound stern, but the love in my voice gave me away.

“This time was different! You were traveling alone for the first time, with so few people—how could I not worry?”

She looked up at me, eyes shining with sincerity. I couldn’t stay mad.

Seeing I was serious, Grandma quickly admitted her mistake, coaxing me, “All right, all right, I was wrong... I shouldn’t have made you worry. I promise, I won’t do it again.”

She patted my hand, her grip surprisingly strong for someone her age.

Grandpa soothed Grandma, Grandma soothed me, and then I looked for a chance to soothe Grandpa too. It was all so funny that I couldn’t stay stern for long. Family, right?

I laughed, the tension breaking. This was what family was all about—messy, complicated, and full of love. Wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“All right, don’t be mad at Grandpa anymore. He was only thinking of you—why throw a tantrum?”

I played the adult, lecturing my two elderly children.

Grandpa shot me a look, but I just grinned, knowing he’d forgive me.

“I’m not mad, not mad.”

Grandma was well-behaved now. “I was just upset because he saw you first... I missed you so much, wanted to see you as soon as possible!”

She sniffled, but her eyes were bright. I hugged her again, feeling her relax in my arms.

“And what if you came home and didn’t see me—would you think I didn’t love you anymore?”

My eyes softened as I reassured her. “Never. I know if I didn’t see you, it must be because you were busy, not because you don’t love me.”

She smiled, tears drying on her cheeks.

“...But what matters most to me is that you stay healthy.”

I squeezed her hand, hoping she’d believe me.

Grandma fell silent, then turned and noticed Chase, remembering there was a guest present.

She straightened, smoothing her dress, and gave him a warm smile.

I couldn’t help but laugh—now she was embarrassed. Turnabout’s fair play.

I nudged Chase, who looked startled, but quickly recovered.

“Chase, come here.” I stood to introduce her. “This is Grandma Carol, the matriarch of the Song family.”

I gestured for him to come closer, and he did, bowing politely.

Chase bowed politely. “Wishing you good health, ma’am. Sorry for intruding.”

His voice was respectful, but I could see he was a little nervous.

“No need to be so formal,” Grandma said kindly, waving off the etiquette. “You’re Mitch’s friend, so according to South Pines custom, you can call me ‘grandma’ too.”

She reached out, patting his hand. Chase relaxed, smiling shyly.

Chase did as told. “Grandma.”

He said it quietly, but I could tell it meant a lot to him.

Grandma beamed. “Good, good, such a good child.”

She squeezed his hand, eyes shining with pride. Like he’d been part of the family all along.

I teased her, “How do you know he’s a good kid? What if he’s a troublemaker?”

I raised an eyebrow, grinning. Grandma just shook her head, smiling at me.

“You child.” Grandma gave me a look, but answered seriously, “Mitch is a good kid, and so is Zach. Anyone who plays with you must be a good kid too.”

She said it with such conviction, I almost believed her.

What kind of logic is that?

I laughed, shaking my head. Grandma’s love was the kind that could blind her to any flaw.

Grandma is hopelessly biased—even if I weren’t a good person, she’d insist I was, and by extension, everyone around me must be wonderful too.

I glanced at Taylor, who just shrugged, grinning.

But finally, I could show off my Taylor to Chase.

I stood up, pulling Taylor to his feet. He looked surprised, but didn’t protest.

Taylor didn’t know I’d brought a guest, but he only looked surprised for a moment before returning to normal.

He offered Chase a polite smile, his posture relaxed but confident.

When I reached for his hand, he let me pull him up.

I squeezed his fingers, proud to have him by my side.

“This is Taylor, my fiancé.” Then I introduced Chase. “He’s Chase, a guest from South Pines, and a distinguished guest of the Song family.”

I made sure to give Taylor’s hand an extra squeeze, just to show off a little.

Taylor declined the formal bow, giving Chase a graceful nod. “Nice to meet you.”

His voice was calm, his smile genuine. I could see Chase relax, realizing Taylor was as kind as I’d said.

Neither cold nor overly friendly—perfectly appropriate.

Taylor had a knack for reading the room, always knowing just how much warmth to offer. Never too much, never too little.

“All right, everyone, take your seats,” Grandpa said, his earlier bad mood forgotten. “Let the housekeeper bring out the food.”

He clapped his hands, and the staff began filing in with trays of steaming dishes.

I led Chase to his seat, then sat in my own. Tonight’s dinner was formal, so we sat at the low table, not the dining table—not the most comfortable, but bearable.

I shifted, trying to find a position that didn’t make my legs fall asleep. These old tables were murder on the knees. Taylor caught my eye and smiled, passing me a plate of roast chicken.

Taylor quietly served me, always attentive to what I needed.

He made sure my glass was full, my plate never empty. It was the kind of care that spoke louder than words.

Halfway through, Grandpa mentioned my father would be back in six or seven days.

The news sent a ripple of excitement through the room. I couldn’t wait to see him again.

Chase’s eyes lit up—he was already looking forward to it. Guess he felt at home here, too.

He leaned over, whispering, “I’ve heard so much about your dad. Can’t wait to meet him.”

The dinner was a success—everyone was happy.

The room buzzed with laughter and conversation, the kind of warmth you only find at home.

After saying goodnight to Grandpa and Grandma, I asked a housekeeper to see Chase to his room and took Taylor back to ours, happy as could be.

I slipped my arm around Taylor’s waist as we walked down the hall, feeling lighter than I had in months.

I vaguely remembered he’d said he had something nice to show me before I left, but now he didn’t mention it at all.

I wondered—had he forgotten?

I glanced at him, curious. But Taylor just smiled, a secret glint in his eyes, and I knew—whatever surprise he had in store, it would be worth the wait.