Chapter 9 Introductions And Intense Gazes

• Monique couldn't help but break into a smile as she gazed at her reflection in the mirror. Her appearance was simple, yet her natural beauty shone through. She had applied light makeup, as her cheeks and lips had a natural rosy hue, and her long, curvy eyelashes didn't require much enhancement. She didn't need heavy makeup for this occasion; after all, it was just a family dinner. Nevertheless, Monique took care to look her best in front of Joshua's family.
• Tonight marked another family dinner with the Shaws, and it wasn't her first time joining them. She had accompanied Joshua to their family gatherings on several occasions. Joshua's parents, especially Clarinda, had been very welcoming to her. Clarinda adored her for her son, and she was genuinely impressed. The first time Joshua had introduced her as his girlfriend to his family, she had felt a mix of nervousness and fear. She worried that Joshua's family might not like her. She confided her feelings to Joshua, who reassured her that she had nothing to fear. He told her that his parents were kind-hearted and that they would surely love her. Joshua's reassurance had eased some of her anxiety and fear.
• Joshua was right; his parents were indeed kind, especially Clarinda. She had welcomed Monique with open arms as if she were her own child. In time, they had become even closer, sometimes bonding together when both weren't busy. Clarinda often invited her for shopping trips and acted as a chaperone for her and Joshua, even though Joshua would grumble about it. However, he had no choice because his mom would scold him if he complained.