A Healer’s Journey

Chapter 271 Casanova

“Everyone’s hard work is appreciated, but it’s just a birthday, after all. Nancy, let’s not do this again, okay? Everyone’s really busy, and I’m not too fussed about birthdays!” Bennett remarked as he and Nancy joined the rest of the party at the riverside pavilion.

Bennett looked resigned, gently chiding Nancy.

Rhiannon interjected, “Mr. Sanchez, Nancy’s gesture is her way of showing her respect and love. Please don’t be too hard on her. Plus, we have to dine anyway. Getting to celebrate your birthday while enjoying the great meal you’ve prepared is a treat for us all.”

Shaun and the others, despite this being their first encounter with Bennett, echoed this sentiment respectfully.

Bennett, with a reluctant smile, said, “Well, if everyone insists. Give me a moment, I’ll bring out my three- year-old pineapple wine for you all to try.”

As Bennett turned and noticed Finnegan, he nodded in acknowledgment before walking away.

Finnegan, taking a seat, queried, “Nancy, is this the first time you’ve celebrated your dad’s birthday?”

Nancy explained, “Dad’s never told me his birthday, and he avoids the question whenever I ask. I’ve never celebrated it before! I only found out today because I stumbled upon his ID while doing laundry. Otherwise, he probably would’ve never told me.”

This elicited a laughter from Shaun, who remarked, “It’s not unusual. I always forget my parents’ and grandparents’ birthdays until the last minute.”

“That’s pretty cold, man. I always remember my family’s birthdays. It’s a good chance to act nice and score some extra pocket money!” Zephyr chimed in.

Their banter continued until Bennett reappeared with a clay pot.

The chatter subsided as he placed the pot down and broke its wax seal. A tantalizing scent of pineapple and alcohol filled the air. “Brewed this three years ago,” Bennett explained. “Used almost ripe pineapples and double-distilled corn wine. By now, it should be smooth with a slightly sour, sweet undertone.”

Shaun sniffed the aroma. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think this was some kind of fruit juice.”

wine, cautioning, “It’s mild and not too strong to taste. But it packs a punch

the first time and probably

showing off.” Witnessing Jaxon slipping back into his old ways of overconfidence and showboating, Finnegan lightly tapped his head, reprimanding, “You should realize that Mr. Sanchez’s homemade wine isn’t something

me next time, Finnegan. It really hurt! And by the way, we all address him respectfully as ‘Mr. Sanchez. When

III

1/3

gap. Doesn’t that seem

giggle. “Considering Finnegan is my

stick to their roles. I definitely don’t

caused uproarious laughter throughout the room, effectively marking

dinner.

joining us in celebrating my father’s birthday. Let’s raise a toast to this wonderful gathering!” She took the lead, sipping her wine,

father, Nancy continued, “Dad, although I only came to live with you when I was nine, and you weren’t a part of my earliest childhood memories, you’ve always been the dad I cherished the most. After Mom passed away, you single-handedly raised me for twelve years,

momentarily, she added, “And that’s why I’m making this toast to you, Dad, as a gesture of my gratitude for all that you’ve done for me!” With that, Nancy raised her glass and

“You, my dear, should drink less of this; it packs a punch later on. And really, it’s me who owes you thanks. You’ve

toast, emptying his

dabbing at the corners of his slightly wet eyes, complained, “Do we have to get so

as everyone laughed.

start of the meal. “Let’s dig in. The pork chop and duck confit are best when hot. They lose their charm once they cool down.”

Everyone picked up their wine glasses or chopsticks, easing

wine, though delightful

slightly

and sweating lightly, a testament to the strength of Bennett’s