CHAPTER 39 : A Surprise Guest.

The dining room buzzed with anticipation as the family gathered for dinner, the tantalizing aroma from the kitchen teasing their senses. Rohit and Patrick remarked on the anticipated deliciousness of the meal, echoed by Alex's mother and grandmother

Just then, Annika entered with bowls of food, placing them on the table before returning with the dessert-a mouth-watering array of brandied strawberry shortcakes and spiced peach hand pies. Narah, Alex sister, couldn't contain her excitement. 'Wow, Annika l'm really impressed!" she exclaimed, taking one of the glass pots and settling it down.

Offering to help, Narah fetched the glass pot containing the brandied strawberry shortcakes with whipped cream and placed it on the table. As Annika began serving, Narah's attention was diverted by a woman's voice from the dootstep.

Turning to see, Narah's face lit up with joy. "Soniya!" she exclaimed, rushing to greet her childhood friend. Alex and his friend exchanged surprised glances, muttering ''Soniya?" with astonishment . They quickly rose and headed to the living room.

As Narah and Soniya embraced and exchanged pleasantries, Narah complimented Soniya's fashionable sneakers and trendy nails, expressing her admiration. Soniys reciprocated the compliments and revealed the sources of her stylish accessories.

When Soniya spotted Alex, she immediately approached him, embracing and kissing him on both cheeks. Annika, watching from felt a pang of jealosly at the intimate gesture. Alex complimented Soniya's attire, but Annika couldn't help but wonder if her own dress was lacking.

As Soniya responded to Alex's compliment, she expressed concern about his weight loss and hinted at taking care of herself . Rohit and Patrick, observing the interaction, excahnged knowing glances, realizing the effect Soniya's presence was having on Annika.

Approaching Rohit and Patrick, Soniya greeted them with a friendlt demeanor, adopting a casual style. She then turned to Annika , introducing herself as Alex's childhood friend and exchanging pleasantries. Annika, though inwardly pertubed, maintained her composure.

Narah approached Annika, explaining Soniya's presence ad their childhood friend. As Soniya took her seat near Alex, Annika suppressed her jealousy and took a sear nearby, pretending not to be affected.

As dinner commenced, the servants served the food and everyone except Alex praised the delicious meal . Annika noticed Alex's reluctance to eat and offered to feed him . Bedore she could, Soniya intercepted, feeling Alex herself. Annika, though visibly annoyed, continued eating, her jealousy simmering beneath the surface.