Chapter 188 Deliberate Surprise

• Meredith had envisioned a cozy New Year's Eve reminiscent of cherished moments from her past. She imagined the family gathered in the living room, united in watching New Year's Rockin' Eve, sharing laughter, and staying up late into the night. At the stroke of midnight, they would exchange heartfelt wishes, echoing the tradition upheld by her grandmother during their days in the mountains.
• Yet, as she surveyed the desolate living room and glanced at her silent WhatsApp inbox, a pang of disappointment washed over her. Zenon's absence from the digital realm only compounded her sense of solitude. With a twinge of uncertainty, she sent a "peeking face" emoticon, hoping to elicit a response, but her efforts were met with silence.
• Recollections of the Stormborn family's bustling schedule on New Year's Eve flickered through her mind. But could they truly be so preoccupied that they couldn't spare a moment to glance at their phones?