Chapter 598 Dessert
Ruben's heart did a little flip.
Hearing Adrian mention his grandma, Ruben clammed up.
After a few minutes, Ruben let out a heavy sigh. "Get out. I'm tired."
Adrian left the study.
Inside, Ruben plopped down on the couch, eyes shut, lost in old memories.
Adrian was a chip off the old block, not just in business smarts but in decisions when it came to love.
Even though Ruben later tied the knot with someone else, he couldn't shake his first love from his mind.
Adrian headed downstairs.
As soon as he hit the second floor, he spotted Claire and Alice chilling in the living room.
Alice looked up and flashed a smile. "Adrian."
Claire, who was chatting with Alice, also looked up. "Adrian, come on down."
Adrian strolled into the living room, and Lori hustled over with some coffee. "Mr. Howard, this year's new brew, courtesy of Ms. Cullen. Please."
Alice had on some delicate makeup today, that kind of fake-natural look, all fresh and pure, a switch-up from her usual bold and glam style. Staring at her face, Adrian got a bit lost in thought.
Alice's face was a dead ringer for Natalie's.
"Adrian, I whipped up some desserts for lunch today. Try one," Alice said, picking up a piece and standing to hand it over. Even though Alice's legs were fine, she still played the weak and injured card around Adrian, limping a bit.
Adrian took it and had her sit back down.
Alice said, "I know you don't like things too sweet, so I went easy on the sugar. See if you like it? If you do, I'll bring some to your office tomorrow."
Alice's voice was soft. Looking at her face, Adrian couldn't help but take a bite. Honestly, it tasted pretty basic, like any other dessert. It was this plain taste that snapped Adrian out of his daze about Alice.
Adrian had tasted Natalie's desserts.
Adrian didn't actually mind sweet stuff. He didn't taste any flavor in this dessert.
Natalie's desserts were sweet but not over the top, soft and delicate.
Alice's dessert didn't hold a candle to Natalie's.
But seeing Alice's face glowing with expections, Adrian said, "It's alright. Don't wear yourself out. Get some rest."
Alice smiled. "As long as you like it, a little effort is no biggie."
Looking at Alice's gentle demeanor, Adrian felt nothing. He didn't sit down but said to Claire, "Mom, I gotta head to the office. Got some work to do. You and Alice have a good chat."
Seeing Adrian about to bounce, Alice looked a bit bummed.
Claire urged. "You just got back and now you're leaving? Is your work more important than anything? You haven't hung out with me in ages. Spend some time with Alice. Her leg's still healing, and she came over with desserts. No matter how busy you are, don't neglect Alice."
Alice's eyes immediately welled up. She started playing the gentle and understanding role. "No need. Adrian's work is more important. I was just bored at home and made some desserts. Aunt Claire, let Adrian go to work."
Saying this, Alice looked at Adrian, her eyes all moist and red-rimmed. "Adrian, you go to work. I'll stay here and chat with Aunt Claire for a bit."