When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 354

Brody let out a laugh that didn’t quite reach his eyes. He just nodded and picked up his fork, saying nothing. Nelly rolled her eyes, not bothering to hide her annoyance. She knew exactly how Brody worked. He’d do something ordinary, act like he was lowering himself, and expect her to be eternally grateful. Meanwhile, when she did the same things, no matter how well, he acted like it was just her duty. Honestly, the fact that she even took a few bites was more than he deserved.

Thinking that, Nelly quickly lost interest in the food. She set down her fork after barely tasting anything. Carrie tried to eat a little more, but she had a tiny appetite and filled up fast.

Brody stared at the table, seeing all the untouched dishes, and his mood hit rock bottom. Then, something about the whole situation suddenly struck him as funny. Was this what Nelly had felt all those times she cooked and cleaned up after him and Carrie? No wonder she’d called him heartless. The way she ignored his efforts, actually stung more than any argument.

Brody started clearing the table, ready to throw everything away like it was no big deal. Nelly stopped him before he could.

“You should call Alan now,” she said.

“Why would I do that?” Brody scoffed, not even looking at her. “He doesn’t deserve my cooking.”

“Alan’s worked really hard for you,” Nelly replied. “You’re his boss. Would it kill you to be nice for once?”

Brody didn’t budge, but Nelly just got more stubborn. Since he wouldn’t pick up the phone, she grabbed hers and called Alan herself. Brody looked like he wanted to stop her, but before he could move, Carrie tugged at his pant leg.

“Daddy, we can’t waste food,” she whispered, her little face serious.

Nelly put the phone to her ear. “Hi, Alan? Can you come over? Mr. Garland has something for you.” She hung up before Alan could even answer.

“Brody cooked a big meal today. Carrie and I couldn’t finish it, so we packed up the leftovers. Half is for you. The other half, please bring to Ms. Olson.”

Alan’s eyes widened. He glanced at Brody, hoping for some kind of explanation. Brody stood behind Nelly, barely looking at him, his face unreadable. When he heard what Nelly said, something shifted in his expression, his eyes turning a little colder.

Nelly turned to Brody. “Alan’s been working hard, taking care of you and Carrie. Ms. Olson too. They both deserve something nice.”

Their eyes met, and for a second, the air was thick with tension. Even Carrie could tell something was off. She pressed her lips together and watched her parents, wide-eyed and silent, not daring to move or speak.