It was strange to watch the father and son exchange sharp glares over something as simple as food.
They didn’t say much, but the silent battle between them was impossible to miss.
Tonight’s dinner had been meant to be special. Ivy had cooked it herself, and for a moment, everyone had expected a warm, heartfelt evening.
Instead, it ended with a strange tension lingering in the air, one that only faded after everyone quietly retreated.
"Ah... that was terrifying," one of the maids whispered as she cleaned the table. "I felt like I was going to freeze between those cold stares."
"I never thought the young master could be just as intimidating as his father," another muttered.
They all knew Leo resembled Xander.
But never, not even once, had they seen him stand his ground like that.
To them, he had always been the sweet, innocent child they adored and pampered.
And yet tonight, they had caught a glimpse of something else.
Something far too similar to Xander.
Butler Rupert, who had been quietly listening, let out a soft sigh.
Before he could say anything, Chef James stepped forward.
"Butler Rupert, I apologize for letting Madam into the kitchen," he said, lowering his head slightly. "She insisted on cooking for the young master."
At first, James had misunderstood Ivy’s intentions.
But after watching her work, the way she handled the knife, the precision, the confidence, even he had been impressed.
Rupert looked at him thoughtfully.
This was not something he had expected from the future lady of the house.
And yet, when he recalled the sight of Leo’s happiness, and even the rare satisfaction on Xander’s face, he could not help but reconsider.
Perhaps she really had done it just for Leo.
"It’s alright, James," Rupert said gently. "You don’t need to apologize. I’m sure the Master won’t be upset with you."
Relief washed over James’s face instantly.
With a small bow, he turned and walked away, his job thankfully still secure.
Rupert remained where he was, his gaze drifting toward the now empty dining table.
For the first time in a long while, the house had felt different, and the feeling brought a quiet smile to his face.
***
Time passed, and Xander found himself once again in his study, contemplating Taylor’s update about Morris Hardley’s death. The news was unexpected, yet it lingered heavily on his mind.



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