Unemployed Family? Hidden Tycoons Dote On Her novel Chapter 530

Arabella couldn't shake the uncomfortable feeling, but with Florence right there, she didn't want to cause any worry. So she simply gave a quiet nod and left it at that.

As she picked at the fruit plate, watching Naomi keep Florence entertained and laughing, Arabella remained outwardly calm. Whether Naomi had genuinely changed or was playing some kind of game didn't matter much in that moment—as long as Florence was happy, Arabella was willing to let it slide for now.

"What's all the laughter about? Sounds like a party in here." Ethan's voice carried in from the hallway.

"Ethan!" Naomi sprang up right away, crossing the room to loop her arm through his. "You're home!"

Ethan looked surprised. His eyes flicked toward Arabella. What's going on?

Arabella offered a slight shake of her head. No idea.

"Naomi, when did you get here?" Ethan asked casually, easing his arm free without making it obvious.

"Oh, I came straight after work," she replied brightly.

Ethan moved to the sofa and took a seat. Then, without beating around the bush, he said, "Must be tiring to come over every day. Why not just move back in?"

Naomi paused, then shook her head. "I'd rather not, really. I just like stopping by to spend time with Mom."

"If you moved back, you could see Mom anytime. And honestly, we'd all like having you here," Ethan pressed.

Again, Naomi declined. "Truth is, I moved out because I wanted to challenge myself. I need to learn to be independent—stand on my own two feet, you know?"

Arabella commented coolly, "Those things don't have to be mutually exclusive."

"She's right, honey, they really don't," Florence agreed gently.

Naomi smiled, almost sheepishly. "Maybe for you guys it's easy, but for me it's different. When I'm here at home, I find myself leaning on Mom without even realizing it. Mom, you are just... too good to me."

Florence chuckled softly. "Oh, sweetie. Of course I'm good to you."

"But I want to grow stronger," Naomi insisted, her tone earnest. "So that one day I can take care of you, Mom. Protect you, even."

"Honey, I don't need protecting—I'm your mother. My job is to look after you," Florence said, her eyes warm.

Naomi slipped her arm through Florence's and said playfully, "But we're all adults now. We can't stay under your wing forever. We have to grow up sometime. So I'm gonna stick with the apartment. Besides, it was a gift from you, Mom. Staying there feels... comforting."

Seeing how resolved she seemed, Florence finally relented. "Alright, sweetie. Whatever makes you happy. Just remember, you're always welcome back—anytime."

"Thanks, Mom. You're the best," Naomi murmured, leaning her head against Florence's shoulder. Florence smiled, patting her arm affectionately.

"Well, if that's how you feel, we won't push you," Ethan said, though his tone was careful. "Do what works for you."

Naomi beamed. "Thanks for understanding, Ethan. I promise I'll take good care of myself. I don't want you or Mom and Dad—or anyone—to worry about me."

Watching Naomi's performance, Arabella raised a brow slightly.

She's really leaning into the whole "good daughter" act. I just wonder how long she plans to keep it up.

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