"You cooked this yourself?" Theodore inquired, his voice laced with scepticism. Deep down, he wanted to believe that it was simply impossible for her to cook something this good. It seemed too coincidental that she had managed to create the most perfect spaghetti he had ever tasted, rivalling the dishes he enjoyed in five-star hotels. He struggled to trust his own taste buds. It wasn't easy for anyone to replicate his mother's cooking, and even if Irene had somehow accomplished it, he found it hard to believe. He searched for a reason to deny the fact that this dish actually tasted good. "Yes, I did," Irene responded, her face displaying confusion. What did he mean by asking if she had cooked it? Wasn't he present in the kitchen when she was in the middle of preparing it? His question seemed to contradict his own observation. Moreover, it was only the two of them in the house. Who else could have helped her cook? The accusation seemed nonsensical, especially since he hadn't lifted a

"I want to talk to him. Only then can you stay here. It's nearly morning, and I have classes in a few hours. I need some rest," Irene spoke sternly, emphasising her point. If he insisted on being so stubborn, she wouldn't go easy on him. He could display his obstinacy elsewhere, not when she was in dire need of sleep. Otherwise, she would become nothing more than a sleep-deprived zombie. "Who gave you permission to use that tone with Cyril Myers?" Theodore clenched his teeth, shooting her an angry look. In truth, he wasn't truly angry with her stubborn behaviour; annoyance was a more accurate description. Nevertheless, he wanted to feign anger, just as she was attempting to project false confidence. Irene felt intimidated by his piercing green eyes, brimming with anger, and his furrowed brow, which lent him a menacing aura. It was becoming increasingly difficult for her to prevail in any argument within this room. "Furthermore, I have to work in a few hours. It would be best if we

"I don't believe so," Theodore replied calmly, his voice tinged with an air of confidence. "You need to inquire about my identity. Deep down, we both acknowledge my right to be here. It is unquestionable because, my dear, I am now part of the family. You included in today"Drawing nearer to Irene, Theodore positioned himself directly in front of her. Tenderly, he took hold of her delicate hand with his larger one. Meanwhile, Irene made a feeble attempt to conceal her exposed décolletage(cleavage), a reflex action triggered by the touch of his fingers grazing her bare skin. The sensation sent shivers down her spine, leaving her in a state of partial numbness."Or perhaps you desire a reminder of who I truly am," Theodore murmured, his eyes smouldering with a mixture of desire and longing. With a single touch, Irene had the power to ignite a blazing inferno within him.Irene's breath caught in her throat at the unexpected mention of "sister-in-law." She could never have fathomed him add

Irene was acutely aware of Lily's unwavering support and non-judgmental nature. Their friendship had blossomed since their kindergarten days, when Irene's own parents seemed oblivious to her existence. Lily had always been there for her, offering a comforting shoulder to cry on and unwavering support.Given their history, Irene wasn't surprised by Lily's hyperactive reaction to the current situation. Lily had always been animated when it came to anything involving Irene, and Irene had grown accustomed to it."Let's continue this conversation in the canteen," Irene suggested, tugging at her hoodie in an attempt to conceal her anxiety. The thought of drawing more attention to herself was overwhelming.Irene had always kept herself hidden, both in her choice of clothing and her reluctance to reveal her true identity as a member of the Jones family. None of her university peers knew about her family background, and she had no intention of exposing herself to unnecessary scrutiny. The idea

After a busy day, Irene returned to her apartment, with Lily insisting on coming along to live with her. However, Irene declined, not wanting to drag Lily into the mess she was already dealing with. She dreaded the thought of Cyril showing up and causing trouble, especially in front of her friend or anyone, given her last ounce of self-respect.Entering her apartment, Irene felt an eerie atmosphere. It was not an easy situation; she was irritated by what was going on."Who's here?" she asked, hearing commotion inside her place. She hoped it wouldn't be the worst-case scenario, as living alone was already frightening enough."You came back?" a voice asked, sending shivers down her spine."Who?" Irene asked again, feeling scared."It's your dear big sister," Misha stepped forward, shocking Irene even more. It had been a whole year since anyone from Jones' family had entered her house, making her feel unsafe.Perhaps there were more bombs yet to be thrown at her, and she had no idea how