Isabella opened the refrigerator to check the ingredients.

Light, quick footsteps echoed from the hallway.

Turning, she saw Liam running toward her, his backpack bouncing.

Her son jumped into her arms, planting a loud kiss on her cheek.

“Mommy!”

“Sweetheart, how was kindergarten today?” she asked softly, holding him.

“It was great!” Liam said eagerly.

The butler laughed. “His teacher praised him today.”

Isabella ruffled her son’s hair, her eyes shining with pride.

Suddenly, the front door opened.

Ethan handed his coat to a servant and walked straight to the dining room.

“Daddy!” Liam slipped from Isabella’s embrace and dashed toward him.

Ethan’s expression softened immediately.

He knelt and lifted Liam into his arms. “Were you good for Mommy today?”

“Yes,” Liam replied clearly.

Dinner was served shortly after.

Servants brought out beautifully arranged dishes one after another.

Isabella silently filled Liam’s plate.

Ethan ate quietly.

A subtle tension hung in the air.

Suddenly, Ethan’s phone rang.

He checked the caller ID.

Sophia’s name flashed on the screen.

He answered.

Her frail voice came through. “Ethan, I feel awful…”

Isabella’s grip on her utensils tightened.

Her eyes drifted toward him involuntarily.

Ethan remained composed. “You should see a doctor.”

Isabella was stunned.

In the past, he would have rushed to Sophia’s side immediately.

This time, he made no move to leave.

Sophia’s voice was distressed. “But… I need to see you…”

Ethan responded coolly, “If you’re unwell, rest. I’m busy.”

He ended the call and put his phone away.

Isabella watched him secretly, searching for any change.

His expression remained unreadable.

The tension at the table grew thicker.

Even Liam sensed it, eating his meal in silence.

After a while, Isabella gathered her courage.

Her tone was tentative. “If Miss Reed is really sick, maybe you should check on her.”

She paused, her voice trembling slightly. “What if it’s something serious?”