Chapter 9

Upon entering the mansion, Eileen encountered Sharon, who had just finished tidying up the kitchen. “Oh, you’re back, Ms.

Eileen. I’ve stored the cake in the fridge. Would you like a slice now?” Sharon dried her hands on a towel, facing Eileen. Weary from a day’s work, Eileen sank into the couch and gestured lazily. “I could use a nap first. I’ll grab a piece later.” However, Sharon exclaimed, “Ms. Eileen, your clothes got messy from baking just now. You’re going to soil the couch. Please head to your room and change first.” Eileen reclined on the sofa and replied mischievously, “No chance, I’m so exhausted. Let me rest for a bit.”

“No, this is getting out of hand!” Sharon was on the verge of pulling her up when Eileen playfully rolled down onto the carpet. She whined, “It’s my birthday today, Sharon.” Just then, the door swung open, prompting Eileen to turn around. She immediately furrowed her brow at the unexpected intruder. Didn’t he head out with Vera? Why is he back so soon? In the foyer, Eric gripped his car key, with Vera trailing closely, head lowered, intentionally avoiding eye contact with Eileen. Sharon greeted with a gentle smile, “Back already, Mr. Snow?” Eric nodded. “My company called for an urgent meeting. I’m here to grab some documents. Let Vera hang around here for a bit. I’ll be back to pick her up later.” Eileen promptly rose, attempting to straighten her clothes, only to realize the futility due to the baking-related smudges. Instead, she raised her gaze, meeting Eric’s eyes. Eric quickly scanned her appearance before inquiring, “Why are you all dirty?” Eileen bit her lip before breaking into a radiant smile. “I got a little messy while baking earlier. Eric, Vera, would you like to try my cake?” Vera, who had kept her head lowered, suddenly lifted her gaze and stared at Eileen in disbelief. She then turned to Eric with a questioning expression. Even Sharon sensed that something was off with Eileen. Eileen had never shown any particular fondness for Vera. It was already a notable act of kindness for her to refrain from bullying Vera. So why, Vera wondered, would Eileen offer her cake now? Sharon hesitated before finally asking, “M-Ms. Eileen, are you feeling unwell today?” Eileen replied calmly, “No, I feel fine. I won’t be able to finish such a huge cake, so what’s the issue with sharing?” Eric, too, found himself surprised, struggling to discern Eileen’s true motive. After a moment of thought, he expressed, “Thank you, but there’s no need. I’m heading out after grabbing my documents, and Vera isn’t particularly fond of sweets.” “Oh, all right then.” Eileen appeared disappointed, but deep down, she was secretly delighted. She had only extended the offer out of courtesy, never intending to share the cake with them. After a moment’s reflection, Eric suggested, “I didn’t have anything prepared for your birthday today. How about I pick up your favorite strawberry mousse cake after my meeting?” Eileen flashed him an appreciative smile and nodded. “Sure. Thank you, Eric.” Suddenly realizing, Sharon exclaimed, “Oh, I forgot about the stew I was cooking. You three carry on chatting.” With that, she rushed into the kitchen, leaving Eileen, Eric, and Vera in a slightly awkward silence. Eileen’s gaze darted between Eric and Vera. Sensing the tension, she turned to the man, saying, “I’ll go get changed first.” She wasn’t particularly keen on facing Eric, as remnants of the past lingered, making her uncomfortable around him. Eric furrowed his brow, observing her hasty departure. Eileen appeared changed from her usual self. Previously, witnessing Eric and Vera together would trigger intense jealousy in her. However, that day, her demeanor had noticeably shifted. Has she truly given up on me?