Chapter: 1603

It was a three-da getaway, and she needed to pack pajamas, outfits for photo opportunities, and various cosmetics.

Joanna inquired, "Bryson, have you decided if you're coming with me? You should bring the girl from your blind date. The more people, the merrier, and it'll be less awkward than just the two of you alone."

Darwin nodded. "I think she's a nice girl. Spending time with her could help you two develop feelings for each other."

Bryson frowned. "I don't even like her. I only went on that blind date because you insisted. She doesn't seem to like me much either. What's the point of going out together?"

"But I think Alyssa likes you," Raina interjected with a smile. "She's the only daughter of the president of Crestview Trust Bank. Marrying her could be advantageous for the Andrews family."

Joanna agreed enthusiastically. "Exactly! Plus, she's really beautiful. Are you really that picky?"

She acknowledged her brother's own charm, but Alyssa was quite attractive and exactly the type of girl she found charming.

Darwin added, "Joanna, take your brother out and have some fun. All he thinks about is work. He's so focused on his career that he's neglecting the idea of starting a family. Your mom and I are still hoping for a grandson."

Raina smiled and chimed in, "Your sister never causes us any worry, Bryson. You're an adult now. You should start understanding these things, got it?"

After a moment of silence, Bryson finally responded, "I understand."

He had another reason for not wanting to go to the hot springs. Norah and Sean would be there too. He had once harbored feelings for Norah, perhaps out of gratitude or admiration. When he learned that she and Sean were a couple, he was both happy for them and personally disappointed.

Even after so many years, he still harbored feelings for Norah and found it difficult to genuinely connect with another woman. Thus, he didn't want to give Alyssa false hope.

Upon hearing his agreement, Joanna beamed.

She had never expected that her brother had feelings for Norah, having previously believed his feigned interest in Kathy.

She wondered about the current state of the Carter family. The last she heard, Madeline and Derek had divorced, with Derek walking away with nothing.

And Marlene had moved into the Carter residence. Joanna scoffed at the thought.

During her studies, Marlene had supported herself as a lover -a testament to her time management skills.

Dismissing these distractions, Joanna realized she needed to call Duncan to ensure he packed everything necessary.

The next morning at nine, everyone convened at Dreamview Villas.

Phillip and Susanna took one car, Norah and Sean another, and Joanna and Duncan a third.

Joanna stood on tiptoe, looking back. "Let's wait a bit longer. My brother went to pick someone up. He's been to Dreamview Villas before. Why isn't he here yet? He's never on time."

"It's fine. A little delay doesn't matter," Norah said, casually leaning against the car while checking her phone for international news and updates from her mother.

Her mother had left for Surella the day after notifying them, departing so swiftly that Norah had barely had time to react. She thought it would take a few more days for her mother to set off.

She then responded to a message from Kayla. Just days ago, Kayla had performed abroad, earning cheers from the audience. Norah was sending her congratulations.