Chapter 154
Chapter 154:
“I’m making something for Brenden,” Loretta replied, just as a servant brought in a bag of fresh ingredients.
The moment Brenden’s name was mentioned, Gabriela’s stomach tightened. The next second, Loretta pulled out several portions of pollack from the bag. As she busied herself preparing the dish for Brenden, he lounged on the sofa, reading a text from Renee.
“I miss you so much, darling. Why haven’t you replied? Are you hiding something from me? If I don’t hear back in ten minutes, you’ll owe me a handbag tomorrow and an all-night cuddle when we sleep p>
The usual flirtatious banter, which once thrilled him, now felt hollow to Brenden. He texted back, “Miss you too p>
Bored, he tossed his phone aside just as Gabriela’s voice rang out. “Dinner’s ready p>
𝗦𝗁𝖺r𝘦 𝗒𝗈𝗎r 𝖿𝗮𝗏𝗼𝘳i𝗍е𝘴 𝖿𝗋оm
His heart skipped. Her words somehow carried more weight than a hundred of Renee’s declarations of love.
Gabriela set the dishes on the table, then noticed Wesley hadn’t emerged. She hurried to his study and knocked gently.
“Come in,” came a cool, measured voice from within. She pushed the door open.
The study was immense, shelves towering like a private library. It was spacious, immaculate, and every detail reflected Wesley’s meticulous nature. He wasn’t at his desk; he reclined in a chair, absorbed in a book.
Wearing a light gray vest over his shirt and with a thick tome in hand, he looked effortlessly captivating.
Gabriela lowered her gaze and said with quiet respect, “Dinner’s ready, Mr. Moss p>
Wesley closed his book, rose from his chair, and replied smoothly, “Alright, let’s go p>
Outside, Brenden was already seated, lounging as if he owned the place. It was a familiar display of his usual careless charm whenever he visited the estate. Before him lay a plate of classic BBQ ribs, glistening and fragrant—the kind of dish that made his stomach ache with anticipation. Had Gabriela prepared this knowing it was his favorite?
Just as he lifted his fork, ready to dig in, the ribs were replaced with a new dish.
“You’re eating this tonight,” Loretta declared.
“This… what is this?” Brenden asked in confusion.
Loretta sat down beside him, a faint smirk playing on her lips. “It’s fish. Are you blind, stupid boy p>
Brenden felt a surge of frustration. Why was he being scolded for this? “What’s with that face?” Loretta frowned. “I put thought and effort into this, and you turn your nose up at it p>
Brenden grimaced. He couldn’t stand the stuff; even the aroma made his stomach churn.
“Wesley knows you’ve been overworking yourself lately,” Loretta continued. “And he suggested you have this for three days straight. Even if he’s strict sometimes, when he shows kindness, you should appreciate it.” Brenden felt a flicker of warmth and glanced at Wesley. He had no idea Wesley cared so much.
Wesley, however, remained perfectly unreadable, his expression fixed and calm. Mustering all his willpower, Brenden dove in and finished the entire plate of fish.
Gabriela, watching quietly from the side, couldn’t hide her surprise. Each chew looked painful, yet he managed to clear his plate.
In the quiet elegance of Rosemont Gardens, Miriam’s voice carried a sharp edge as she scolded Phyllis. “You idiot! Even if Gabriela’s boyfriend really is Brenden, you had no business inviting him there. Do you even know who Brenden is? He’s Wesley’s cousin p>
Phyllis, eyes flashing with defiance, shot back, “Vivian said Brenden’s a notorious playboy, with so many girlfriends he can’t even remember their names p>
She assumed Gabriela’s connection to him didn’t mean much.
“So what?” Marie snapped, her patience wearing thin. “Reputation or not, Wesley treats him like a brother and protects him. That alone makes him magnetic to everyone in the circle. And look what you’ve done! Not only did you fail to embarrass Gabriela, you’ve insulted Wesley. Gabriela’s at his place right now, probably scheming how to get back at you p>
Phyllis felt a flicker of fear, but it was drowned out by envy. “I’m not afraid of her!” she declared. “If she tries anything, I’ll make sure no one walks away unscathed p>