Empre
Chapter 103
Something in his tone made Irene narrow her eyes. “What’s that supposed to mean?
He lifted his shoulders in an innocent shrug. ‘Just making conversation.”
Irene wasn’t buying it, but pursuing the topic felt like stepping into quicksand. She retreated to the kitchen instead, hoping the familiar routine of cooking might cool her burning cheeks.
A couple of hours later, Irene had just slid the last dish onto the table when the doorbell rang. She stiffened, already knowing who it would be before James opened the door to reveal Adam flanked by the triplets.
“Mom! We invited Uncle Adam
Thomas fo
for lunch!” Lucas announced, bouncing on his heels.
Irene smoothed her expression into neutral territory before
From the kitchen.
“Join us,” she said, gesturing to the table she’d set with extra places out of habit. The triplets always ate like they were fueling for hibernation.
As they settled around the table, Irene glanced at Adam. “So what’s the damage for the window? I can send payment after lunch.
Adam paused with his fork halfway to his mouth. “Don’t know yet. Repairman hasn’t been by.” His lips quirked. “But what’s one broken window between neighbors? Unless you’re really feeling guilty–then maybe add it to our meal tab.”
“Meal tab?” Irene’s eyebrows drew together.
Thomas glanced up, watching his boss with sudden interest.
“My chef had to leave town,” Adam explained, cutting into his food. Family emergency. He’ll be gone a while.”
Irene’s eyes narrowed with suspicion. “What convenient timing.”
“It’s absolutely true,” Thomas jumped in, voice rising half an octave. His son got injured back home. Nobody else to look after him.
Despite the slight twinge of conscience about the white lie, Thomas couldn’t help but stare longingly at his plate. Dr. Sterling’s cooking blew their recent meals out of the
ater
“Dr. Sterling,” Thomas ventured, schooling his features into his most earnest expression, “would it be possible… I mean, if it’s not imposing… could I possibly join these meals too?” He gestured at his already half–empty plate. “This is seriously the best food I’ve
had in months.”
Irene hesitated. Daily cooking for two extra mouths wasn’t exactly in her plan. Still, they’d all grown comfortable with each other,
and it was just one more plate.
“Fine,” she finally conceded. “But you’re on dish
“Hooray! Mom is the best!” The triplets cheered, seemingly more excited than either of the actual beneficiaries. Their little minds raced with the possibilities–more opportunities to bring their parents together! This was perfect for their secret plan.
They’d noticed their mom was constantly busy lately, racing between hospital and home with barely enough time for their usual family rituals. Getting Adam to visit regularly was the perfect solution.
“Uncle Adam, try this!” Lily urged, carefully transferring a piece of meat to his plate. “Mom’s mini steaks are the yummiest things ever!”
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Chapter 103
“You need some of this too, Alex added, spooning vegetables onto Adams plate with scientific precision.
Lucas piled on more food. “These carrots are amazing. Sweet but not too sweet!
“Look! Lily found you a heart–shaped carrot!‘ the little girl announced proudly, pointing at her special selection.
Irene watched the children’s fawning with a strange twist in her stomach. Her fork hovered midair as something suspiciously like jealousy prickled under her skin. I carried these kids for nine months, and now they’re practically falling over themselves for Adam
Haven.
The triplets had never shown such enthusiasm setting the table for her or Joseph. She stabbed her food with slightly more force than necessary. This was ridiculous. They were just being friendly. It didn’t mean anything.
Still, watching her children orbit Adam like tiny planets around a su made her feel weirdly sidelined in her own home
As evening settled over Silver City, the Haven family mansion welcomed a special guest.
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