?Chapter 3124:


    She consumed small, nutrient-rich meals five or six times a day instead of threerger ones.


    Still slightly drowsy, Elissa descended the staircase. Her eyes found Savannah first, then immediately flickered to Ernest, who stood a respectful step behind her mother.


    “Mom.” She didn’t address Ernest directly, but the very air in the room seemed to soften at the sight of him.


    Savannah permitted herself a silent, inward sigh. “Come, you should eat something.”


    “Alright.”


    In the dining room, the maid presented their options. “We have freshly baked scones today to go with the tea. Blueberry and durian—which one would you prefer?”


    “I have no preference,” Ernest deferred immediately, turning to Elissa. “What would you like?”


    “Blueberry, please,” she answered, and then added almost as an afterthought, “He’ll have the durian one.”


    “Of course,” Ernest agreed effortlessly. The food itself was irrelevant; his sole purpose was to share this moment with her.


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    When the tea tray arrived, Elissa was the only one with any real appetite.


    Ernest carefully cut a small piece of her scone and brought it to her lips.


    Almost instinctively, Elissa parted her lips and epted the bite.


    Across the table, Savannah observed the exchange, her own words of caution dying before they were spoken. This was her first time sharing a meal with the two of them together. Was this level of casual intimacy typical for their generation?


    “Is it good?” Ernest’s attention was wholly captivated by Elissa’s reaction.


    “Yes.” She nodded, and then gestured toward his own untouched te. “Can I try yours?”


    “Alright.” Mindful of the strong vors, he switched to a clean utensil, cut a portion, and offered it to her as well. “Here you are.”


    “Thank you.” A look of pure contentment softened Elissa’s features as she savored it.


    Ernest understood immediately—her preference was clear. He proceeded to cut another piece for her.


    “You’re giving me all of it…” Elissa murmured, a faint crease of mild protest appearing on her brow. “What will you eat?”


    “I’ll have whatever remains.” He then lifted her ss of milk, holding it carefully for her to drink. “Here, take a sip to wash it down.”


    Savannah could only watch, momentarily speechless.


    Was this their normal dynamic? Was this the kind of unguarded, tender interaction that had, years ago, ultimately led to Ethan’s conception?


    “You have a little something just there…” Noticing a trace of milk at the corner of her mouth, Ernest picked up a linen napkin and dabbed it away with gentle care.


    His phone suddenly vibrated in his pocket.


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