Chapter 314

As Gideon and Gino were talking, they heard a car pull up in the driveway. Judy, who had just helped Mildred downstairs, went outside and returned with a happy announcement. "Madam, Ms. Hera and Mr. Killian are back." Just as she finished speaking, Bernard entered with Hera, arms laden with bags. "Grandma, we're back," he greeted, subtly positioning himself as Mildred's future grandson-in-law. Hera shot him a warning look, urging him not to speak out of turn. Mildred beamed. "Wonderful! Welcome back! Why did you buy so many expensive things?" Her eyes were glued to the bags Bernard carried. She recognized that all of them were from high-end luxury brands. "It's a small token of appreciation from Hera and me," Bernard replied. Hera remained silent. "Bernard certainly isn't being shy." Gideon stepped forward to take the bags from Bernard. Bernard's constant use of "we" and "Hera and I" firmly linked the two of them together. "We'll be family soon," Bernard added. Gideon was