Chapter 414

Max had never truly understood the notions of fondness or yearning. His life was a constant climb, an unending quest for achievement, with scant regard for the journey’s joys.

He was a man devoid of excess emotion; even during the year Martha descended into madness, he remained stoic.

His father always said he was born to do business. But now, a curious new sentiment was taking root within him, warming him to the core and leaving him utterly disconcerted. He didn’t recognize this feeling as shyness; rather, it felt as if every pore was radiating heat. So, he never did utter the words, “because I found you.

His tone was even, and through the screen, Brielle couldn’t see the expression that played upon his face, but for Max, even in the midst of a tempest, one would be hard–pressed to see him furrow his brow.

Brielle paused, ensuring the trash bag was securely tied before heading downstairs. “I know.”

Ever since Max had given her that rosary, she had a hunch about his feelings. But now, things were different. She glanced down at her belly and thought it wasn’t the right time.

Her world was in utter disarray.

“Brielle, is your loss of appetite because you’re… jealous?” It was rare for Max, a man seemingly oblivious to the throes of love, to even recognize the concept of jealousy.

“No. I just need some rest.”

The hint of a smile in Max’s eyes faded slightly. Was she not jealous? He furrowed his brow. wondering if Brielle really liked him. Wouldn’t she feel uneasy knowing he was getting close to another woman?

“Max, don’t worry, I won’t be affected by these trifles.”

Trifles? Max’s frown deepened, unsure of what he was feeling. He didn’t want Brielle to be upset, yet if she truly felt no twinge of jealousy, he felt oddly deflated. This must’ve been what Andrew meant by ‘torture.”

“Yeah, as long as you trust me, that’s all that matters.”

After hanging up, he pursed his lips, a picture of puzzlement.

Just then, the chef rolled in the dinner cart, and he followed them inside. Martha hadn’t rested long before she was up and smiling at Max, beckoning him over. “Max, come and sit down.”

The room was spacious, with a large dining table by the window. Martha was already seated there, prim and proper.

Max walked over, taking a seat opposite her.

Martha’s gaze shifted to the door, noting Alivia’s absence, and frowned. “Where’s Alivia? Did 12:58 she leave? Max, how could you not Invite her to stay for dinner? After all these years, you still have no clue how to treat a lady.”

As she finished speaking. Alivia entered, carrying a bowl of soup. “Aunt Martha, don’t blame Max. I wanted to make you some soup to help you recover.”

Martha stood up happily to take it, casting a reproachful glance at Max. “What are you waiting for?

Max, go help her.”

Max’s face remained impassive; he didn’t refuse but took the soup from Alivia’s hands.

As Martha thought the two might grow closer, she heard Max say. “As I’ve said before, soup–making is best left to the professionals.”

Alivia’s face fell, a look of hurt flashing in her eyes.

Hearing Max’s words, Martha felt exasperated, wondering how he could be so tactless, event with the woman who might be his future wife. She quickly took Alivia’s hand, blowing on it affectionately. “Don’t mind Max’s nonsense. I’m truly touched you made soup for me. I can’t wait for the day you join the Dorsey family.”

Alivia glanced at Max, knowing that any hesitation or coyness would only erode his trust in her. Max had already made it clear he had someone else in his heart. “Aunt Martha, let’s talk about that later.

Max and I are still young. There’s no rush.”

From Max’s perspective, Alivia was making excuses for him. Although he was dissatisfied with the current atmosphere, he said nothing.

Martha smiled even more warmly, patting Alivia’s hand. “Let’s eat.”

Max’s mind was elsewhere during the meal, only picking at his food. When his phone rang, it provided the perfect excuse to leave.

“Mother, Alivia, please enjoy. I have to go to the office.”

Martha’s face clouded with displeasure. It was already late; why hurry to the office? “Max, it’s been so long since we’ve had a peaceful meal together, and Alivia is here, too,”

Alivia swiftly served Martha some food. “Aunt Martha, there’s no helping it. Max is busy with the company. Now that you’re back in the country, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to dine together. We can always do it next time.”

Seemingly making excuses for Max, Alivia cleverly set the stage for another mealtime.