CHAPTER 214 DESPICABLE PARENTS

She took over, filling a bowl for Kennedy first, then one for Derik, and finally one for herself. Her actions held a certain dignity yet detachment, subtly hinting at her position as merely an employee. An unreadable emotion crossed Derik’s face as he accepted his bowl and muttered a soft, “Thank you.” “You’re welcome,” Mary murmured, casting her gaze downward and beginning her meal. The room fell into a silence, punctuated only by the faint sounds of their dining. Noticing Mary’s single-minded focus on a particular dish, Derik found himself reaching out to serve her more. Upon sensing his gaze, Mary looked up only to divert her eyes when she met his. She proceeded to eat faster, seemingly eager to finish her meal and take her leave. Derik’s lips twitched as if to speak, but he remained silent, eating in quiet while the food tasted bland and unappetizing to him. Out of nowhere, the silence was broken by the shrill ring of a phone. It was Mary’s phone. Placing her fork down, Ma