Chapter 164

Evelyn Carter finally gave in to her younger sister's relentless pleading, reluctantly agreeing to "play it by ear."

Emily Anderson's eyes instantly curved into crescents at her sister's concession. She chattered nonstop during the car ride, making their father Andrew Anderson laugh heartily while their mother Grace Anderson playfully tapped her forehead. "You little chatterbox," Grace scolded affectionately.

Evelyn sat quietly in the front passenger seat, her gaze fixed on the scenery rushing past the window as Emily's cheerful laughter filled the car.

"Is the air conditioning temperature alright?" Peter Harrison suddenly asked.

She turned slightly. "Hmm?"

"I can adjust it if you're cold."

"It's fine as is."

"Let me know if you feel uncomfortable."

"Okay."

"This car..." Peter's grip on the steering wheel tightened. "It's just a regular domestic model. Not as comfortable as those imported luxury vehicles."

Understanding his concern, Evelyn offered a small smile. "I don't know much about cars. As long as it has four wheels and runs, it's good enough for me."

Peter's tense shoulders visibly relaxed. "True."

"Besides, domestic cars have improved significantly lately, especially new energy vehicles. I hear they're quite popular overseas."

"Exactly!" Peter's eyes lit up at the mention of his professional expertise, launching into an enthusiastic explanation about technological breakthroughs and market prospects for domestic automobiles.

Though Evelyn knew little about cars, she found his passionate lecture surprisingly interesting.

Midway through his explanation, Peter suddenly remarked, "I've noticed a white Cayenne parked near your building recently. I hope our domestic brands can produce high-end models like that someday."

"They will."

"Have you ever driven a luxury car before?"

Evelyn recalled the time she drove Alexander Hamilton's car to take Natalie Stapleton to the hospital.

"Once."

"Your ex-husband's?"

"Yes."

"What model?"

"...Cayenne."

Peter chuckled. "What a coincidence?"

"Perhaps that model appeals to domestic consumers."

Being technically-minded, Peter took the remark at face value and cheerfully resumed his automotive education.

Though Evelyn's family lived within Hudson City limits, their home was some distance from downtown. Normally, they'd take either a coach or high-speed rail to visit.

After nearly two hours of driving, Peter finally pulled up at the reserved Cantonese restaurant.

Auntie Lucy stood waiting in a deep red cheongsam, her hair immaculately coiffed, beaming as she greeted them. "You're finally here!"

Grace grasped her hands warmly. "We wouldn't have made it so soon without Peter picking us up."

Auntie Lucy waved dismissively. "What are sons for if not to be useful!"

"You're too modest. Having such an accomplished, filial son—I envy you."

"Filial? He's practically ancient and still single. I'm the one envying your two lovely daughters. Shall we trade?"

Grace's eyes crinkled with amusement. "No need for trades. Peter's already like a son to me, and you can consider my girls your daughters."

Auntie Lucy's face brightened. "I'll hold you to that! Take this useless boy as your son already so I can stop worrying about his marital prospects."

The implication was unmistakable.

Emily, engrossed in texting her boyfriend Kyle Carter, remained oblivious to the adults' conversation.

Grace paused, exchanging a meaningful glance with Evelyn.

Only a son-in-law could be called "half a son."

Auntie Lucy was clearly hinting at...