Unmasked My CEO Ex-Husband’s Regret novel Chapter 281

She had originally planned to make an amaranth and century egg soup, but worried Melody wouldn't like the texture, she opted for a simple stir-fry instead.

Elara took the plate of Savory Eggplant & Mince and set it on the dining table. "I'm going to go change my clothes really quick."

"Sounds good. We'll eat as soon as you're back down," Jocelyn replied.

Melody watched her go, looking as though she wanted to follow, but ultimately stayed put. Instead, she turned back toward the kitchen and took the initiative to grab three sets of silverware and plates.

Jocelyn beamed with pride. "Oh my goodness, look at our Melody helping Grandma out. You're such a good girl!"

Melody blushed, shyly averting her gaze from her grandmother's praising eyes. But a moment later, something clicked in her little mind. She froze like a robot powering down, stood totally still as she thought it over, and finally realized what felt off.

"I'm not helping Grandma," she corrected, her tiny face set in a serious, deadpan expression as she stared at Jocelyn's back. "I'm eating too, so I need silverware. I'm getting them for myself."

Jocelyn, who was boiling water on the neighboring burner to blanch the greens, paused with the vegetables halfway to the pot. She looked at her granddaughter in genuine surprise.

Melody lifted her chin, meeting her grandmother's gaze, and reiterated firmly, "This isn't just Grandma's job. I'm helping myself and Mommy get our plates."

Jocelyn instantly understood. The little girl didn't like the implication that setting the table was solely her grandmother's chore that she was merely "helping" with.

"You are absolutely right, Melody," Jocelyn agreed warmly.

She instinctively reached out to pat her granddaughter's head, but realizing her hands were wet and the water was already boiling for the greens, she opted for a verbal apology instead.

"Grandma misspoke. Thank you for reminding me, sweetheart. I apologize."

Melody's serious expression melted into a satisfied, bashful smile. "You don't have to apologize! Just remember for next time."

"I promise I will!" Jocelyn vowed playfully.

Satisfied, Melody turned around and resumed setting the table.

Jocelyn turned back to blanching the red greens.

By the time Elara came back downstairs in her comfortable loungewear, Melody had the table perfectly set, and Jocelyn was putting the final seasoning touches on the last dish.

"Wow," Elara said, stepping into the dining room and offering genuine praise. "Our little girl set the table today. Thank you so much."

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify