Watching his son ascend the stairs, Christopher Cooper merely shook his head and walked down the staircase into the dining room.
In the dining room, Vera Wave was about to sample the Rice Steamed Pork Ribs that Bailey Hansen had served her. Spotting Christopher entering, she hastily set down her chopsticks and stood up.
"...Dad!"
Over the years, she had harbored some resentment towards Christopher, and her guilt towards him had only grown stronger.
Christopher raised a hand to steady her shoulder. "Sit down and eat. It won't taste as good once it gets cold!"
There was nothing unusual in his tone. It was as if nothing had happened, as if she had simply gone to work and returned for dinner.
Vera lifted her face to meet his eyes.
"Dad, I..."
The man's lips curved into a gentle smile. "It's good that you're back. Let's eat!"
As he spoke, the hand on her shoulder applied a little more pressure.
