Bet nodded and expressed his regret, saying, “I apologize for the earlier incident.


    Joann tends to act impulsively and often steps out of bounds.


    ”


    Ste offered a reassuring smile and replied, “Please, there’s no need for formalities.


    Whatever she might have said, it was her action, not yours.


    ”


    It was just the two of them in the garden.


    Ste did not know Bet well.


    She was ufortable with the unfamiliar man standing next to her.


    She tucked her phone into her purse and said to him, “The dinner party is starting.


    We should head inside.


    ”


    She then stood up, ready to walk away.


    “Mrs.


    rk,” Bet called out to stop her.


    As Ste turned around, puzzled, she heard him say, “I have a personal question to ask you.


    ”


    Ste was taken aback, unable to fathom what personal question Bet would ask her.


    Bet quickly rified, “Please, don’t take it the wrong way.


    Having lived overseas for many years, I’m quite out of touch with local matters.


    It struck me that I’ve never heard mention of the Anderson family in Seamarsh, and I was curious about your origins.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    If my question is too intrusive, feel free not to answer.


    ”


    In stark contrast to the aggressive Joann, Bet’s manners were wless.


    Realizing he was merely curious about her origins, Ste’s tension eased.


    She openly shared, “I’m actually not from Seamarsh.


    I was raised in Bysea by my grandfather.


    ”


    Upon hearing this, Bet’s interest peaked, and he couldn’t help but ask, “What about your parents?”


    Ste noticed an odd anticipation in his gaze and hesitated before probing, “Why are you so interested in my family history?”


    She posed the question with a light smile, which made Bet realize his enthusiasm could have seemed excessive.


    He moderated his tone and apologized, “I’m sorry for my eagerness.


    The truth is, I have a cousin I’ve never met.


    She disappeared after an ident and is around your age.


    You seemed somewhat familiar when we first met, which piqued my curiosity.


    I hope you’re not offended.


    ”


    Upon hearing Bet’s words, Ste instantly grasped the reason behind his reaction.


    Her thoughts turned to Be and Kristian, who had never resided in Bysea.


    Determined not to let Bet harbor any illusions about her, Ste rified, “I’m afraid I might let you down.


    My parents lived in Dorburn, not here.


    We have no family ties to Bysea or Seamarsh.


    ”


    Bet’s face fell momentarily, but he quickly masked his disappointment with a smile.


    “I see.


    I’m sorry for the mix-up.


    ”


    Ste shook her head, expressing her empathy.


    “It’s alright.


    I can imagine how tough it must be, missing family members like that.


    ”


    “Thank you for your understanding,” Bet replied, his smile warming.


    Meanwhile, not too far off, Joann clenched her teeth in frustration.