Chapter 158 Threads of Presence-3
Chapter 158: Threads of Presence-3
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Then, as if sensing the weight pressing on everyone, Dominic cleared his throat lightly and leaned
forward. He reached across the table, his large hand settling on Jaime’s shoulder in a firm,
reassuring squeeze.
“Oh, we’ve got plenty more stories, son,” Dominic said, his voice low and steady, warmth threading through every word. Then a grin tugged at his mouth – that familiar, mischievous one that always hinted trouble. “And some really good ones about your dad, locked under bro code.”
He tapped the side of his head, leaning in as if sharing a dangerous secret. “Top-secret stuff in here. Your aunt would kill me if I told you, but…” His grin widened. “I might just let you in on a few- if you promise not to tell your aunt and sister. Deal?”
He gave Jaime a conspiratorial wink, the kind that made the air feel lighter again.
That earned a weak, shaky laugh from Jaime. “Deal!”
Dominic’s smile deepened, eyes crinkling with affection. “That’s my boy.” Then his tone gentled, the teasing giving way to concern. “But your aunt and sister are right it’s time to hit the sack. You look like you’re about to fall face-first into the teapot.”
Dahlia reached across the table, her voice steady, threaded with care. “How about we come visit you tomorrow instead?” she said with a smile. “You can show your Uncle Dominic the project you’re working on. Your dad and he always loved messing around with codes and numbers-he might even have a tip or two to share… though knowing Dom, you’ll probably have to teach him a thing or two. He’s getting old; the tech world moves faster than his coffee brews.”
Dominic gasped, clutching his chest in mock offense. “Old? Excuse me, I can still crack a cipher faster than anyone in this family.”
Damien coughed pointedly, a single eyebrow rising as he silently said, Really?
Dominic shot him a look, then let out a resigned sigh, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips. “Well… except your son,” he admitted with a chuckle. “But I’ll have you know, this brain is still in top form, thank you very much.”
Dominic’s concession drew a soft chuckle from around the table, the easy laughter threading through the quiet evening. Dahlia’s lips curved into a tender smile as her gaze returned to Jaime, steadying him with her presence.
“And I’ll bake some cookies too,” she said softly, her voice carrying the warmth of familiar routines. “Just like your mom and I used to on weekends. I’ll bring them fresh, I promise.”
Her hand reached out, brushing gently over Jaime’s. “But for now, your parents wouldn’t want you pushing yourself like this. They’d say exactly what I’m about to say-time to rest, sweetheart.”
Jaime exhaled, a flicker of defeat crossing his face-but beneath it, warmth lingered. He nodded slowly, eyes lowering, the ghost of a smile tugging at his lips.
Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.