Chapter 90
Evelyn's lips curved into a faint smile.
The moment she stepped through the front door, the tension in her nerves instantly melted away.
The overflowing affection from her six brothers and parents wrapped around her like a warm embrace.
"Didn't Ethan come with you?"
Richard's gaze swept past Evelyn, searching the doorway.
"He took his own car. He should be here soon."
As soon as the words left Evelyn's lips, Theodore popped a ripe strawberry into her mouth.
The burst of sweet-tart juice made her eyes crinkle with delight.
"Take the fruit platter to the living room!" Victoria shoved the tray into Theodore's hands. "And stay out of my kitchen!"
Theodore scratched his head sheepishly before obediently leading his sister away.
"Kitchen disaster?" Evelyn teased.
He flashed a boyish grin, revealing his canines. "Don't listen to their nonsense. Try this cherry!"
No way was he losing face in front of his little sister.
Julian suddenly leaned in. "It's not like you can't tell chives from scallions or landed in the ER from instant noodles."
Theodore clenched his fists.
Evelyn burst out laughing.
"Shut it!" Theodore shoved a piece of honeydew into Julian's mouth.
In the kitchen, Sebastian listened to the lively banter, his lips quirking upward unconsciously.
Ever since Evelyn came home, the house had finally come alive.
Victoria watched her bickering sons and beaming daughter with contentment shining in her eyes.
The doorbell rang.
The butler opened the door to reveal Ethan holding an elegant gift box.
"Aunt Victoria, I brought some tea."
"You shouldn't have brought gifts just for dinner. Come in!" She ushered him inside while discreetly studying him—and liking what she saw.
Ethan's gaze immediately zeroed in on Evelyn curled up on the sofa.
"Go join Evelyn and the others." Victoria nudged him toward the living room.
Ethan deliberately maintained distance from Evelyn.
His sharp eyes noticed how her smile vanished the moment he appeared.
"What's wrong, Evie?"
Theodore turned and saw his sister's darkened expression. He immediately glared at Ethan. "Did you upset my sister?"