Ruth

"Father! How are you?" Ruth greeted Mr. Westwood. Her smile was genuine, a reflection of the warmth she felt toward him. Even at the age of 60, James Westwood was a striking figure. His handsome features and charismatic aura were impossible to miss. One look at his face, and it was evident that he was an open-hearted, joyous person, always ready to welcome others into his world.

Sometimes, Ruth couldn't help but wonder if Ethan and James were truly related. The contrast in their personalities was stark. James had a smile that could put anyone at ease, an infectious cheerfulness that encouraged people to share their joys and sorrows with him. On the other hand, Ethan exuded an icy demeanor, a warning to keep a safe distance.

"I have never been better," James replied with a broad smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he took in the sight of his son and Ruth. His welcoming attitude instantly put Ruth at ease, and she couldn't help but feel a genuine fondness for him.

Even though they had only met a few times, Mr. Westwood had always been exceptionally friendly towards Ruth. It was a striking contrast to his wife, who had taken an instant disliking to her. Ruth was well aware that this animosity stemmed mainly from her humble background.

She also suspected that Veronica, Ethan's ex-girlfriend, played a significant role in this dynamic.

Mrs. Westwood adored Veronica and had regarded her almost as a daughter. If their relationship hadn't fallen apart, Ruth knew that Veronica and Ethan would likely be happily married by now.

The true reason behind Ethan and Veronica's breakup remained a mystery. Ruth had occasionally attempted to broach the topic, her curiosity piqued, but Ethan had proven reticent to divulge his personal affairs, and she, in turn, respected his boundaries, unwilling to intrude where she wasn't invited.

"Seeing you and Ethan together and happy is enough for me." he replied with a smile.

Mr. Westwood's warm reply eased the doubts that had clouded Ruth's mind, reaffirming her belief that staying with Ethan had been the right decision. She couldn't fathom the anguish the old man would have endured if she and Ethan had parted ways. It was evident that he was in a fragile state, his health and heart condition making their separation an unbearable prospect. Her conversation with Mr. Westwood had alleviated her concerns.

However, when Ruth turned toward Ethan to gauge his reaction, she was surprised to find him not there.

Ethan and Mrs. Westwood were at the entrance and in a heated conversation from what ruth could see.

It seems like he is talking with her about the stunt she pulled yesterday by entering his married son's house to spy on his marriage life.

It is good that they are having this conversation, ruth thought. As ruth and Ethan are living together now they cannot have his mother sneaking up on them again.

Before she could turn away from them, Mrs. Westwood turned towards her with a angry expression, she threw the nastiest glare at her.

Ruth sighed heavily there is no winning her over. Not that she needs to. It is not included in her duties as a fake wife.