Chapter 378

Chapter 378:

Satisfied, she studied her reflection, tilting her head slightly as a slow, knowing smile spread across her lips. “Noah, tonight, you will definitely notice me.”

Meanwhile, across town, Sadie pushed open the doors of Myrtlewood Estate, instantly enveloped by the familiar, comforting scent of home-cooked dishes. From the kitchen, Laura emerged, an apron tied neatly around her waist, carrying a steaming bowl of soup. A gentle smile softened her features.

“You’re home, Sadie. You must be exhausted,” she said, setting the bowl down with care. “Come, have some soup. I made your favorite.”

Sadie took the bowl in her hands, its warmth seeping through her fingertips. She lifted the spoon and took a small sip, letting the rich, velvety flavor settle on her tongue.

“Grandma, you didn’t have to cook again,” Sadie said, setting the bowl down with a sigh, her voice laced with exhaustion. “I could’ve just grabbed something simple.”

Laura clicked her tongue, her warm eyes filled with quiet reproach. “You silly child. No matter how busy work gets, your health should always come first.” She reached out, gently cupping Sadie’s face, her touch soft yet firm. “Look at you—you’ve lost so much weight.”

Sadie offered a tired smile. Before she could protest, Laura continued, “Oh, that reminds me—Noah’s back. He should be in the study.”

The words landed like a stone in still water, sending ripples through Sadie’s thoughts.

“He’s… back?”

Laura nodded, her tone light. “Yes, just a little while ago. He’s probably drowning in work again.” She gestured toward another steaming bowl. “Take this to him, will you? The man needs to eat.”

A beat of silence passed before Sadie drew in a quiet breath and nodded.

“Alright.”

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She turned, steadying herself before stepping toward the study.

The door stood slightly ajar, a sliver of light spilling into the dim hallway. Sadie paused, her heartbeat a quiet drum against her ribs, before she gently nudged the door open.

Inside, Noah sat at his desk, his attention fixed on the glow of his laptop screen. The light cast sharp shadows along the planes of his face, accentuating the strong, chiseled angles.

His dark gray shirt clung to his broad frame, sleeves pushed up just enough to reveal the sculpted lines of his forearms.

The creak of the door broke the silence.

His gaze lifted.

“What is it?” Noah’s voice was cool, devoid of warmth.

Sadie stepped forward, placing the bowl gently on his desk.

“Grandma made soup. She asked me to bring it to you.” Her tone was soft, almost hesitant, as though she was afraid of disturbing him.

Noah’s gaze flickered to the bowl, then back to her. For a fleeting moment, something unspoken passed through his eyes—something unreadable.

“Just leave it.” His attention dropped back to his laptop, fingers poised over the keyboard.

The air in the study grew heavier. Sadie shifted on her feet, searching for something to say.

“How was your day?” The question formed in her mind but felt pointless—like a bridge too fragile to cross.

She exhaled lightly, her voice quiet. “Well, I’ll just leave you to it.” She turned toward the door.

“Hold on.” Noah’s voice stopped her mid-step.

She turned back, meeting his gaze.

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