When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0569

Paul was waiting for her? What for?

“Is there something important you need from me?” Miranda immediately became serious.

I

“Yes, and I think it’s… good news for you.”

“What is it?” Miranda’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. The more Paul teased, the more curious she became.

“Well, here’s the thing…”

The previous day, Paul had visited a friend at the neighboring Dunham College and “casually” made a small request.

“Dr. Fischer has agreed to free up one of their biology labs for you. I went to check it out, and it has all the equipment you need, including the CPRT measurement device.”

“Really? That’s amazing!” Miranda nearly jumped with joy.

It was like the perfect solution had fallen into her lap just when she needed it most. She had been. stressed about finding a lab, but Paul had already taken care of everything!

It felt like being rescued just when she was about to be left out in the cold, and the place was prepared specifically for her.

Unable to contain her excitement, Miranda rushed forward and grabbed Paul’s sleeve. “Dr. Jefferson, you’re just the best!” Her bright eyes shimmered, practically glowing with gratitude.

met,

Even through the fabric of his shirt, Paul could feel the warmth of her hand on his arm. Their eyes n

and Paul smiled at her.

It was then that Miranda realized she might have gotten a little carried away. She quickly pulled her hand away. “Sorry, Dr. Jefferson, I got too excited.”

In her hurry to apologize, she missed the brief flicker of disappointment in his eyes. “It’s okay.”

“To thank you, you’re coming over for dinner later–no excuses!” Miranda said before darting back to her

apartment.

Paul’s previously dim eyes lit up at her words.

Once inside Miranda’s apartment, Paul took off his coat. He then rolled up his sleeves and headed straight for the kitchen. He washed the vegetables, chopped them, and peeled the garlic.

Without Miranda even asking. Paul took care of everything before she could. He moved around her kitchen with such ease, seemingly more natural than when he was in his own home.

This wasn’t the first time they’d cooked together, and over time, they had developed a seamless rhythm. Miranda would reach out for something, and Paul would already know whether she needed salt, sugar, a bowl, or utensils.

By 6:00 pm, a meat dish, a pasta dish, two vegetable dishes, and a stew were ready on the table. Outside, the wind howled through the dark night, but inside, the warmth and coziness made it feel like a safe

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0569

haven.

Miranda knew Paul didn’t drink alcohol, nor would he let her, so she didn’t even bother to ask. She said, Thanks, Dr. Jefferson, for helping me out yet again.”

“Thank you, Miranda, for treating me to another delicious meal.”

‘So… we’re even?” She laughed.

Paul nodded with mock seriousness. “Exactly.”

The table was set with pork ribs, pasta with marinara sauce, roasted vegetable medley, sautéed vegetables, and a large bowl of beef stew.

Though the portions weren’t large, the flavors were perfect, and they finished everything together. Paul murmured to himself, “I’ve been gaining weight lately..

Miranda was busy clearing the dishes, and the clinking sounds drowned out his words. “What did you say,

Dr. Jefferson?”

“Uh, nothing… Let me help.” He immediately started helping her clean up.

By now, Miranda barely had to wash dishes herself. Not to mention, Paul had become quite skilled at it. All she had to do was stand beside him, drying the clean plates and putting them away in the cabinets.

Noticing Paul was wearing a white sweater, she couldn’t help but ask, ‘Dr. Jefferson, do you want to wear an apron?”

Paul glanced down at himself. “Good idea. I don’t want to wipe my hands–could you help me put it on?”

“Sure.” Miranda grabbed the apron but hesitated for a moment. He was so tall that she would have to stand on her tiptoes and lift her hands high to slip it over his neck.