Though a bottle had been opened beforehand, Cole pretended to take a corkscrew from the server, theatrically popping the corks of the other bottles.

After pouring wine for Zoe and Mrs. Wells, he spoke with a sincere smile, "I've done some foolish things before, and I regret upsetting you, sister-in-law.

Let today be my apology. I'll take care of serving you and the elders—just leave it all to me."

Mrs. Wells observed Cole's thoughtful demeanor and recalled the early loss of his mother, realizing how much he had endured over the years.

Her expression brightened as she glanced at the young server still standing in the private room and joked,...