Chapter 1626: Chapter 1626

Lea snorted dismissively. “I don’t care for the business. I want to be independent in the future. Earn more, spend more. Earn less, spend less.”

Sophia shot Lea a look of veiled sarcasm. “You’ve got some backbone, sis. You should really hone your painting skills and follow through with your dreams. If you ever run into trouble, like not being able to sell your paintings, you know where to find me. I’ll definitely help you out.”

Lea glared at Sophia. She may be young, but she wasn’t stupid. Sophia’s insinuations were clearly derisive, implying that if she couldn’t afford to eat while being an artist, she could come home and beg her for food.

Pfft! She’d rather starve than ask her for help!

At that moment, the waiter came over and brought several ‘appetizing starters.

Thaddeus cleared his throat, trying to dissipate the tension in the air. “Alright, let’s eat.”

Not wanting to argue with Sophia and make her mom uncomfortable, Lea picked up her fork and started eating.

Meanwhile, Adrian was all ears. He was looking around the restaurant as if he’d heard something. He thought he heard his mom’s voice.

Could she be here too?

“Dad, I need to pee.”

Adrian voiced his request to Marcus.

Marcus, who hadn’t started eating yet, heard his son and started maneuvering his wheelchair to accompany him.

Seeing his struggle, Lea put down her fork and volunteered to aid Adrian instead. “Marcus, let me take Tristan to the restroom. I needed to go anyway.”

Marcus was a bit apprehensive. In his eyes, Lea was only ten years old and wouldn’t be able to protect Tristan.

Aware of his concern, Lea added, “I just need to wash my hands, so I’ll be waiting right outside the boys’ restroom. You have mobility issues, Marcus. You shouldn’t move so much Sophia didn’t want a sick Marcus to be wheeling around. “Marcus, the restroom is right there. You can see it from here. Plus, the restaurant isn’t crowded today, so nothing will happen. Let Lea accompany Tristan; you don’t need to stress yourself.”

Marcus looked up and confirmed the restroom’s location. It was indeed visible right from their table.

After some thought, he nodded in agreement. “Alright, I’m counting on you, Lea. Please keep an eye on him; don’t let him run off.”

Lea confidently thumped her chest. “You’ve got it, Marcus.”

With that, Lea led ‘Tristan’ towards the restroom under Marcus’ watchful gaze.

The washing area in the restroom was unisex. Lea stood by the shorter sink. “You go in and do your business. I’ll wait for you here.”

Adrian didn’t rush into the restroom but looked back out.

Lea knew from his reaction that she had guessed right. “Don’t you dare sneak off? I’ve promised your dad that I’ll keep an eye on you.”

Adrian pouted. “How did you know I wanted to sneak off?”

Lea tipped her chin up. “You’ve been looking around ever since we got here, It’s pretty obvious that you’re surveying the area to make an escape. So, am I right?”

Adrian shook his head. “Auntie, you’re only half right.”

Lea furrowed her brows in surprise. “What do you mean? What do you mean by half right’? What’s the other half?”