?Chapter 453:


    Of all the games, why this one?


    Maia quickly calmed herself and decided to observe Ethan’s game skills.


    Maia couldn’t deny that Ethan picked things up quickly. Each time he stumbled on a level, he figured out how to conquer it the next time around.


    Maia took a few moments to observe. When Ethan finally triumphed over the boss, she quietly set a slice of cake on the desk.


    As soon as the cake hit the table, Ethan jumped, startled. He quickly nced up and sprang to his feet.


    “Maia, what are you doing here?” Ethan’splexion whitened immediately, like a child caught red-handed by the teacher. He swiftly shut off his phone screen and concealed it behind his back, acting as if nothing was amiss.


    Unbeknownst to Ethan, Maia had been there for some time, witnessing everything unfold. However, Maia chose not to reprimand him. Her smile remained genuine, though a yful sparkle flickered in her eyes.


    “I baked this strawberry cake. Do you want to give it a try?” she asked, sliding the te closer to Ethan.


    She closely observed his reaction.


    Ethan appeared to be overwhelmed with panic, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. Nevertheless, when he spotted the cake, his tension seemed to melt away. He slid his phone into his pocket, grabbed the cake, and took arge bite.


    In that instant, Ethan’s eyes grew wide with surprise. Without hesitation, he bit into it again. It tasted absolutely amazing.


    The mix of sweet strawberries and rich frosting was simply delightful. “This… this is out of this world!” Ethan eximed, his mouth full. “Maia, I’ve never tasted cake this fantastic! You’re amazing. You’re like a magician of baking!”


    Maia chuckled at Ethan’s exaggeratedpliments and yfully tapped his head. “A few days apart, and you’ve really upped your charm game.”


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    Ethan devoured the cake in record speed and wiped his lips clean. “I mean it!”


    It was true; he had never tasted anything this incredible. Growing up in the slums, just having enough food felt like hitting the jackpot.


    Birthday cakes were nothing but a fantasy for him. On special asions, he might have received an extra egg.


    “If you enjoy it, I’ll bring you more next time,” Maia said with a warm smile. Then, with casual curiosity, she asked, “How about that game you were ying? Did you have fun?”


    Ethan stood still, taken aback. He had believed that he had escaped trouble. He never thought that Maia had witnessed the whole thing.


    His cheeks turned bright red, and even his ears appeared flushed. Ethan looked down, biting his lip. “I’m sorry… I should be hitting the books instead of ying games.”


    Maia took her time before answering. Instead, she reached over and tousled Ethan’s hair. “I’m not upset.”


    Ethan blinked, gazing up at Maia. He was trying to understand if she was sincere.


    Maia grinned, choosing not to frighten him. “Really, I’m not upset. It’s perfectly normal for someone your age to enjoy games. Honestly, gaming can be a good way to unwind when school gets hectic, as long as you don’t go overboard. Plus, the right games can actually help you learn and rx!”


    Maia gave Ethan a reassuring pat on the shoulder and continued, “Just keep in mind to y only after you’ve finished your homework. Bnce is key. If you can manage that, I won’t just support your gaming; I might even… join you!”


    “Really?” Ethan could hardly believe what he was hearing. “You’ll actually y with me?”


    “Definitely!” Maia replied, nodding and smiling. “But only once you’vepleted your homework.”


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