Billionaire's Gift

Monica only finally understood her husband's deep-rooted bitterness after she'd put herself in his shoes. She'd always known that she would be miserable if she couldn't live peaceably with the people she truly loved. However, Malcolm had never expressed his feelings to his family. As a military officer, he had deeply formative experiences from his time in the army. He'd learned to bury his feelings within himself no matter what he felt.

Monica had not expected her husband to keep his promise. Malcolm was a quiet man, but he'd spent the whole of the previous night talking to her. She was very grateful that he didn't mention Ivy while they talked.

"Is that mom I hear in the kitchen? I must be dreaming! I thought she hated that place!" Ethon said as he frowned in disbelief.

He had lived in the family for more than twenty years, during which time he rarely saw his mother cook a meal in the kitchen. She had a pampered upbringing, and as a result, she was very reluctant about cooking. Besides, the kitchen's greasy smell held minimal appeal for her.

All the dishes that Monica had ever cooked were horrible as far as Ethon could recall. He remembered how much he liked eating Cola Chicken wings in restaurants when he was seven years old. He pestered his mother for them nearly every week until she finally learned how to make them herself to save some money.

That dish of Cola Chicken wings was one of the most unforgettable memories he had. He remembered feeling happy and elated when he first found out that she'd made them for him. Little did he know how much salt had been added into it.

Whatever illusions he had then was shattered with his very first bite. He was left disappointed and upset because the dish tasted sour. Monica's version of the chicken wings turned out

ned and stared at her in surprise. She was dressed in a creamy white sweater and black peg-top pants. She looked rather stylish.

Fiona couldn't help but become nervous when she saw her. She had told herself on their way over that there was nothing to worry about. But now, seeing Monica standing right in front of her made her uneasy.

"Mom!"

"Auntie!"

Ethon and Fiona greeted in unison. The anxiety in her voice was palpable.

"Hmm, it's mealtime. Let's have dinner, shall we?" Monica said in a friendly tone even though her face remained expressionless.

Ethon held Fiona's hand and smiled meaningfully. He knew his mother reasonably well. In reality, she was a combination of a soft heart and a sharp tongue.

Malcolm sat at the table's head, with Ethon to his left and Monica to his right. Fiona's back was ramrod straight as she sat beside Ethon. She thought that she should sit as they did since she was now in a military family.

"This is sweet and sour pork spareribs. It took me a long while to cook it. Try it out, Nana," Monica urged softly as she picked up a piece and handed it to Fiona.

"Thank you, Auntie!" Fiona replied, overwhelmed by her kindness and warmth.