Chapter 168: Chapter 168: Eliminating Hidden Dangers (6) Chapter 168: Chapter 168: Eliminating Hidden Dangers (6) So, some things can’t be settled just by what Joyce Lopez says.

“Grandma Hawkins, I work as a manager in the Public Relations Department of Hawkins Family Business, and I’ve learned a lot by working alongside Brother Bryan.” Joyce replied with a smile, then changed the subject, “Butler, could you help me bring those items over, please?”

She spoke politely, and the butler brought over everything she asked for. Joyce then proceeded to distribute the gifts she had carefully selected for everyone present.

Aside from those who clearly disliked her, Austin Hawkins, Sophia Lawson, and the master of the Hawkins family were grateful for Joyce’s thoughtful gifts as they held them in their hands.

William Hawkins wasn’t interested in the gifts at all and, after receiving them, set them aside without even unwrapping them, then went back to his cellphone.

“Miss Carolline, I’m sorry. I didn’t know I’d run into you here today, so I didn’t prepare a gift for you. Next time, I’ll make it up to you separately.” Joyce managed to consider everyone, even if she didn’t genuinely want to give Carolline a gift; it was important to maintain appearances before the Hawkins family.

“Thank you, Miss Joyce.” Carolline replied. Neither accepting nor rejecting the offer. After all, the gift had not yet been given, it was merely a verbal promise. There was no need for her to take it too seriously.

Soon, it was time for dinner. Both Carolline and Joyce had been invited. As Grandma Hawkins’ guest, Carolline was expected to stay for dinner. Joyce also stayed at Sophia’s invitation.

The dinner was somewhat awkward, slightly different from the previous times Carolline had dined here. Perhaps it was because Joyce was now at the table, too. Even though Grandma Hawkins usually engaged in conversation with her, she was unusually quiet tonight.

Carolline didn’t say much, either. She didn’t have much of an appetite, yet did not want to make a special request for the sweet-and-sour dishes she liked. So, she just had some vegetable soup and a few light dishes, which were enough to fill her.

“What’s wrong, dear? Isn’t the food to your liking today?” Grandma Hawkins quickly noticed Carolline’s poor appetite. After two bowls of spinach and tofu soup, it seemed she had no intention of eating more.

“Yes, I’m sorry, Grandma Hawkins. My stomach’s been feeling off these past few days, and I don’t have much of an appetite.” Carolline had to attribute it to her stomach, as Grandma Hawkins was aware of her weak digestion.

“Then, why don’t you and Bryan settle matters quickly? His aunt, Mrs. Lu, is very good at cooking nutritious meals. Let her take care of you; I’m sure you’ll feel better.” Camelia Hawkins said deliberately to make Joyce aware.

Indeed, Joyce’s face twitched slightly again. She could pretend that she hadn’t heard before, but now Camelia Hawkins was obviously speaking deliberately for her to hear. Even if she didn’t want to care, she couldn’t pretend not to hear it at this moment.

“Hey, stop talking nonsense.” Joyce was about to retort, but Caroline interrupted Camelia Hawkins’ words.

“I…” Camelia Hawkins wanted to protest, but was stopped by a glance from Grandma Hawkins.

“Since you can’t eat, how about I have Mrs. Lu make you a fruit smoothie?” Grandma Hawkins asked Carolline tenderly.

“Yes, thank you, Grandma Hawkins, thank you, Mrs. Lu.” Carolline nodded. She could hardly decline the sweet offer made by the old lady.

Carolline had lost her appetite and Grandma Hawkins had also accelerated her eating speed. Soon, they went to the living room to chat, leaving the dining room. Camelia Hawkins also lost her appetite after a few bites.

Throughout the meal, Sophia had been taking care of Joyce. Seeing Grandma Hawkins and her daughter’s aloofness towards Joyce, she felt guilty, especially when she saw Joyce’s aggrieved expression, she felt even more uncomfortable.