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"You really did?" asked Shannon, bursting into laughter. Her laughter hasn't stopped since Aland started telling his story for the first time.

Pete did the same, even as the trio relaxed in the living room. "If you hadn't been there, I think they'd probably be in the news for a big story about how they'd been evicted because they couldn't pay, Aland."

Aland nodded slowly and rubbed his chin, which was about to grow fine hair around his jaw. "I wonder why Jill didn't take out her wallet. She still has some credit cards, doesn't she?"

Shannon pushed Aland's arm lightly with her forefinger in annoyance. "Mum wouldn't want to take out her money, Aland. She won't want to be at a disadvantage even if she's already enjoyed her food."

Aland quickly grabbed the food his wife wanted and fed it to her lovingly. Although he bought the roast chicken dish to fulfil his wife's sudden craving, he also bought Pete the same food to eat.

"Please enjoy the food, Pete. I had to drive quite a distance to g