From a Wrong Turn to Mr. Right novel Chapter 70

Lance Carter’s mind was anywhere but on his son, Ethan. Instead, his gaze drifted over to Olivia Bennett, the quiet girl standing nearby. There was something in her eyes—a familiar sharpness that reminded him a bit of Ethan.

Aileen was dressed simply—no makeup, her hair pulled back in a ponytail with a scrunchie. She stood quietly by Ethan’s side, not saying a word, looking more like a college freshman than anything else.

But when Lance noticed the two of them holding hands tightly, even he—who’d weathered more than his share of life’s surprises—found himself momentarily taken aback.

He’d always figured Ethan wasn’t the type to get caught up in relationships.

“And this is…?” Lance asked, his tone flat, betraying none of his thoughts.

He wasn’t one to pry into his son’s business, but since he’d run into them here, he figured he should at least show some interest.

“Olivia Bennett. My wife.” Ethan’s introduction was short and to the point.

Then he glanced down at Olivia, his voice softening, “This is my dad.”

Boom.

Olivia felt like someone had just knocked her upside the head.

She looked up at Lance in disbelief, words stuck in her throat. After a long moment, she finally managed a tiny, awkward, “...Dad.”

Lance’s mind went just as blank.

No news for ages, then suddenly, his son drops this bombshell and expects her to change how she addresses him on the spot.

Hearing that sudden “Dad,” Lance shot Ethan a quick glare, but instead of making a fuss, he just smiled warmly at Olivia and asked, “So, you two here for some cake?”

Meeting the parents out of the blue wasn’t what Olivia had expected today. She quickly pulled her hand out of Ethan’s and nodded, feeling awkward. “Yeah, I heard this bakery’s carrot cake is amazing.”

“I heard that too,” Lance said, “There were a couple of college girls talking about it all day at the diner. I happened to be nearby for dinner, so I figured I’d pick up a slice or two. Your mother’s got a sweet tooth for these things.”

At first, she hadn’t really looked at Lance—just a quick glance before looking away. But after a second look, she realized there really was a resemblance between him and Ethan, especially in the eyes.

Same shape, same deceptively calm expression that hinted at something much deeper.

“Still nervous?” Ethan’s voice cut into her thoughts, his familiar presence grounding her.

Olivia’s gaze cleared, meeting those deep, intense eyes she already knew so well.

Except now, the sharpness was gone, replaced by a gentle warmth.

She shook her head, voice quiet, “Not really.”

Ethan didn’t say whether he believed her or not. He just gave her a look, then reached out and took her hand.