Game Over No Second Chances

Hugh had already gotten the full story from Serena, and Calvin had given his orders.

"Grandpa's agreed to let her stay at the Larson residence during her pregnancy. But Eric and Cole will be tied up with work for the next few days," Hugh said.

Eric's earlier mess was still unresolved, and now that Cole's engagement was finally squared away, it was time for both father and son to get back to business.

Serena fell silent, clearly deep in thought. "Besides Grandpa, the only ones at the Larson residence now are Melissa and Sarah. Those two are constantly at each other's throats. What if they end up disturbing Grandpa's rest?"

Frankly, she didn't care if they tore each other to shreds-but Calvin was another story. The scandal involving Cole had taken such a toll on him that he'd been bedridden for days.

He still hadn't fully recovered. Could he really handle more stress?

Hugh noticed the worry in her eyes deepen and said, "Grandpa's heading to a rehab facility in a couple of days. Until then, he'll probably stick around to lay down the rules for Melissa and Sarah. He knows what he's doing. Don't worry about it."

"Really?"noveldrama

"Really." He nodded.

Finally, Serena let out a sigh of relief. Still, just in case Calvin got dragged into the mess—and knowing Hugh's workload was already overflowing-she stepped up to take responsibility as Mrs. Larson.

"You take care of your work. I'll keep an eye on things. I won't let Grandpa get upset. It's about time I pitched in to help out my trusted ally."

"Alright." Hugh didn't hesitate. He trusted her completely.

They were about to head back when Serena's stomach let out a loud, embarrassing growl. It echoed clearly across the hospital parking lot.

Her face flushed scarlet. She ducked her head into the soft rabbit fur of her coat, mortified, and said nothing for a while.

Ever since helping Zach launch Zarena Group—and with Alicia and Chris making sure she ate on time at Amber Group-it had been a long time since she'd felt this awkward.

"Shall we go for dinner?" Hugh asked casually, his tone unreadable.

Serena muttered, "It's too late... A salad bar's fine."

"There's a decent place nearby," Hugh said as he glanced at her. She was still buried in the fluffy collar.

Her nose was nestled in the fur like a shy rabbit. It was... unexpectedly adorable.

He said nothing more, just gently took her wrist and led her to the car. Out of Serena's sight, Hugh's gaze was unusually tender.

They drove off toward the restaurant in silence.

After a good meal, Serena's phone buzzed. It was a call from Howard.

"Take Sarah back to the Larson residence. I still need to bring Rachel home."

As expected, Calvin had agreed to Sarah's request without hesitation. He was always fiercely protective of his own, especially when it came to the unborn great- grandchild.

Hugh received a message from Calvin, too. He said, "Grandpa wants me to go back with you. It's late, and he doesn't want you traveling alone."

They arrived at the Larson residence well past midnight. The house was a flurry of activity, with maids moving quickly to prepare Sarah's room.

Sarah was lounging on a single-seat couch like a queen issuing royal commands, while Melissa stood nearby, teeth clenched as she watched Cole's room being overrun with baby supplies.

Serena didn't even bother to look. She hadn't planned to spend the night, but since she was already here, she figured she might as well stick around and play the role of supervisor.

She turned to one of the maids. "Where's my room?"

The maid looked at her for a

poked

moment, puzzled, before replying, "Mr. Larson Senior said the two of you would be coming back together. Both your room and Mr. Larson's have already been prepared. Would you like me to show you to Mr. Larson's room?"

Wait... What? She was staying in Hugh's room?