?Chapter 934:


    Hisughter turned my face a brilliant shade of crimson. Embarrassed, I lowered my gaze and gently blew on the steak before cautiously taking another bite.


    In an instant, the savory vor exploded on my taste buds, the crispy yet tender texture mingling with a rich, unique aroma that was nothing short of divine.


    I widened my eyes, mumbling with my mouth full, “This is phenomenal, Alden! Your cooking is simply extraordinary!”


    When Alden heard this, his smile grew even brighter, his lips curling with joy. “Ailyn, I’m d you like it. Just eat more. If it’s not enough, I’ll roast some more.”


    Seduced by the mouthwatering aroma, I tossed caution aside and devoured the steak recklessly.


    As I finished, I licked my lips, still yearning for another bite, and was about to speak to Alden when a soft yet slightly exasperated voice suddenly pierced the air from behind us.


    “Alden, you rascal, you’ve pilfered my steak for the barbecue again!”


    At the sound of her voice, I froze and turned to see Maia striding toward us, hands nted firmly on her hips, exuding undeniable authority.


    In a heartbeat, Maia stood before us. Without uttering a word, she seized Alden by the ear.


    “Ouch, ouch!” Alden yelped in distress, his expression a mix of indignation and pain. “Maia, you have plenty of steak! It won’t hurt if I snag a few bites!”


    As he spoke, he desperately tried to pry her fingers from his ear, seeking relief from the difort.


    Maia, upon hearing his protest, was so infuriated that sheughed, shaking her head. “Won’t hurt? If you keep sneaking bites, soon a morsel won’t be left!”


    She took a deep breath, her expression shifting to one of stern resolve.


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    “Besides, I’ve repeatedly warned you—no barbecuing here. What if you end up igniting the whole ce?”


    Alden, ever the defender, raised his voice in protest. “I’m just trying to impress a guest! I wanted Ailyn to savor my cooking.” He pointed at me as he made his case.


    Only then did Maia shift her gaze toward me. After a brief moment of surprise, she released Alden’s ear, a slightly awkward smile creeping onto her face as she addressed me. “Ailyn, I truly apologize for themotion.”


    Standing there, feeling a tad out of ce, I mustered a sheepish smile and stammered, “Mrs. Pierce, I’m really sorry. I had no idea Alden had snatched your steak. How about this? I’ll buy some to make amends.”


    Makenna’s POV:


    Maia shook her head slightly, her tone softening. “No need for that, Mrs. Burton. Don’t take it to heart. Alden has always been unruly. Sorry for the trouble he caused.”


    With a yful grin, Alden stuck out his tongue before darting behind me. He leaned in and whispered mischievously, “Ailyn, see that? Maia’s so unfair. She’s nice to you, but she’s always hard on me.”


    Maia’s expression darkened. Without hesitation, she grabbed his ear. “Do you even realize the mess you’ve made? You’reing with me right now, troublemaker, and we’re going to have a long talk about it.”


    Then Maia dragged Alden away.


    He pulled a face at me and called out, “Ailyn, I’ll make you something delicious again next time!”


    Watching them disappear, I couldn’t help butugh. But as I turned, my amusement faded—I hadn’t noticed Jett standing quietly behind me.


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