My Mister

Chapter 37

Sterling's interruption brought a welcomed break to the formalities, injecting a touch of playful banter into the atmosphere of the dinner. "Alright, enough of the boring talk," he interjected with a mischievous grin, his tone light and teasing as he shifted his attention to Mia. "Let's talk about something more interesting—like what you think of my older brother here."

Sebastian's reaction was swift but subtle, a fleeting tightening of his jaw and a quick flicker of his eyes towards Sterling before they settled back on Mia. His gaze was intense yet unreadable, a mixture of curiosity and vulnerability shimmering beneath his composed exterior as he awaited her response with a palpable sense of anticipation.

Caught off guard by Sterling's question, Mia took a moment to collect her thoughts, her eyes flicking between the two brothers before settling on Sebastian. Despite the lighthearted tone, she sensed an underlying tension in the air, a silent challenge lingering beneath Sterling's playful demeanor. Taking a deep breath, she replied with a hint of playful diplomacy, "Well, let's just say he's... quite the enigma," she said with a subtle smile, choosing her words carefully as she glanced back at Sebastian, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of amusement and intrigue.

Scarlett's comment elicited a ripple of laughter from the family, breaking the tension that had momentarily hung in the air. "Oh, really now," she chimed in with a mischievous glint in her eye, her playful tone laced with affectionate teasing. "You know, my brother here can be quite the handful—hence why he's still a bachelor."

Sterling chuckled in response, his grin widening as he leaned back in his chair, seemingly unfazed by the playful ribbing. "Hey, now," he protested with mock indignation, shooting a playful glare at Scarlett before turning to Mia with a wink. "Don't believe everything you hear, Miss Lee."

The exchange was met with more laughter from Erica and Silas, who seemed to relish in the jovial atmosphere that surrounded their children's banter. Sebastian, though amused by the exchange, remained composed, his expression unreadable as he observed the playful dynamics of his family with a sense of quiet fondness.

Mia swiftly interjected, seeking to dispel any potential misunderstandings. "Oh, no, we're just partners, striving for success together," she clarified, her tone gentle yet firm as she glanced briefly at Sebastian, hoping to convey reassurance.

Sebastian's reaction was subtle but palpable, a flicker of disappointment clouding his features momentarily as he mulled over Mia's words, his thoughts drifting back to the intimate night they had shared. Despite his efforts to maintain composure, a trace of uncertainty lingered in his gaze as he processed her statement.

Their brief exchange was interrupted by the host's announcement, drawing attention away from the momentary tension as Silas Saint and his wife were called upon to take the stage and formally welcome the guests. Mia and Sebastian exchanged a fleeting glance, their unspoken thoughts echoing in the silent exchange before turning their attention back to the proceedings unfolding before them.

ebastian's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Saint, exuded an air of elegance and sophistication as they stood at the front of the room, their warm smiles welcoming each guest with genuine hospitality. With graceful gestures, they extended their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for gracing the event with their presence, expressing their hope that the evening had been a delightful amalgamation of delectable cuisine and enriching conversation.

As they seamlessly transitioned into introducing the eagerly anticipated literacy program, all eyes turned to Sebastian, the visionary behind the initiative. With a confident stride, he ascended the stage, his presence commanding attention and respect. Mia, seated among the audience, couldn't help but feel a swell of pride as she watched him, marveling at his ability to effortlessly captivate the room with his words.