Chapter230
Ashley and Steve knew this was a family reunion. Yet, someone significant was missing Ashley looked away, her eyes welling up slightly. To maintain the cheerful atmosphere, they avoided mentioning Steve.
By nine, close friends and family began to arrive. A formal dinner would be held later at a reserved hotel.
While Ashley greeted guests, Rong Yunhe, Steve’s son, noticing Sam’s quiet demeanor, patted her cheek.“Sam, what’s wrong? You seem distracted.”
Ashley knew she was missing Tanya. Sam had obeyed Chase and stayed at the Rong family home, but her mind was elsewhere. She’d texted Tanya repeatedly, but Tanya seemed busy and hadn’t replied much.
In the afternoon, they went to the hotel. Around six, guests started arriving. Steve received gifts and seated guests, but one guest looked uncomfortable.“My apologies, Mr. Rong. I have another celebratory dinner to attend; I’ll just have a quick drink and leave.”
Steve and Ashley understood and didn’t press him. They thought it was an isolated incident.
