Chapter 195:
Witnessing her struggle to hold back tears brought a flicker of annoyance to Johnny, but he knew she was only trying to help. With a sigh, he broke the tension. “It really isn’t a big deal, Dad. If Paola wants it, she can have it.” He extended the small box to Paola. “It’s yours now.”
Without missing a beat, Johnny faced Rylie, sincerity clear in his eyes. “I still owe you. If you ever need anything, just call me.”
A reserved smile touched Rylie’s lips. “Alright, I’ll remember that.”
Taking his leave, Johnny offered the Owen family a polite farewell, and Paola wasted no time in trailing after him. Laurel watched them go, keeping her thoughts to herself but remarking, “Those two certainly stick together.”
A sudden laugh escaped Hulda. “It’s true. Johnny has that kind of easygoing charm that attracts attention. Still, he’s loyal. Ever since he met Rylie, he hasn’t stopped talking about her.”
Gianna gave her arm a gentle squeeze. “Indeed, he fell for Rylie the moment they met.”
In that instant, Gianna dashed any hope Laurel had of tying the families through marriage. Gianna’s smile turned toward Rylie, warm and approving. “This might be our first meeting, but I already feel fond of her.”
With a tilt of her head, Rylie replied calmly, “I’m afraid there’s some confusion. Johnny and Paola are actually together.” Casting a guileless look at Laurel, she continued, “That’s right, Laurel?”
Heat crept up Laurel’s neck. Admitting Paola’s pursuit would do her no favors with the Reid family, and any denial would be even harder to explain.
A nervous laugh escaped her as she tried to smooth things over. “Young people’s relationships are mysterious to me. All I know is what Paola shares — she and Johnny have always been close, that’s all.”
A thin smile stretched across Gianna’s face. “Of course. Paola is clever and pleasant, but Johnny’s not the type to settle for just anyone. If anything, he probably considers her a trusted friend.”
Felix interjected, “Let’s change the subject. My sister needs peace and quiet, not more drama. She’s already accepted your apology. There’s no reason to keep going.”
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Backing him up, Kendrick nodded. “That’s right. It’s time for everyone to clear out.”
At that, the Reid family, with Laurel close behind, left the room without another word.
Deandre broke the quiet with a grumble. “What’s Johnny doing — trying to keep both girls guessing?”
According to Marcus, there was more to it. “That’s not what’s happening. Johnny’s heart is with Rylie, but Paola’s made her feelings clear too. The Reids know Rylie’s the direct descendant of the family, while the Garretts are more distant relatives. It makes sense they…”
“I want to keep their distance from Paola.” Suddenly, Brad came to Deandre’s mind. He paused before saying, “If Rylie decides she likes Johnny, I wouldn’t mind. He’s a far better choice than the alternative.”
Curiosity flickered in Felix’s eyes. “What alternative? Who else is she supposed to pick?”
Rylie faked a few coughs just to break up her brothers’ back-and-forth. “I’m not planning to date anyone, and Johnny’s not for me. Quit guessing, Marcus. That goes for you too, Deandre.”
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