Ch. 291..300

Chapter 291 Clean Freaks

Kingsley was holding a huge plate of pasta when he made his way toward their bed.

“Mr. Watts, why don’t you eat in the dining room instead?” Gavin asked with a frown.

He was a bit of a clean freak and couldn’t stand people eating on his bed.

“It’s boring to eat all by myself there!” Kingsley replied with a smile.

Noticing the furious look in Gavin’s eyes, he quickly moved to the couch instead.

“Make sure you don’t drop any of your food!” Gavin reminded him.

Kingsley burst out laughing when he heard that. “All right, I promise I won’t drop any! I’ll clean it up for you if I do!”

While the other siblings also valued cleanliness, none of them were on the same level as Gavin.

Jasper stared awkwardly at Gavin as he thought to himself. Would he freak out if he finds out that I’ve been eating on his bed in the past?

Gavin then glanced at him all of a sudden, prompting Jasper to quickly look away and run toward Kingsley.

“Does it taste good, Mr. Watts?”

The pasta smelled really amazing.

“Do you want to try some?”

Kingsley asked while feeding him a mouthful of it.

Jasper ate a little bit after a brief pause.

“It’s delicious!”

“Then you should have some more of it!”

Kingsley would always be in a good mood whenever he was around them.

“This fork has your saliva on it! I’ll use my own!” Jasper whined as he ran off to get his own fork from his bag.

What the hell? Are they a family of clean freaks or something? Kingsley thought to himself.

Zachary and Oliver were amused by the dejected look on Kingsley’s face and decided to join in on the fun. “We want some pasta too, Mr. Watts!”

Jesse swallowed her saliva in anticipation. “Me too!”

“All right, you can all have some! Are you all that hungry? I could have Mr. Whitley whip up some more!” Kingsley said with a chuckle.

Gavin quickly gave Edwin a call when he saw that his siblings were all hungry.

Edwin got to work in the kitchen immediately after hanging up the phone.

Oliver snatched the fork out of Jasper’s hand and helped himself to the pasta. “This tastes so good!”

A few hours had passed since they had lunch at the Old Manor, so they were indeed very hungry as the food had mostly been digested.

Kingsley couldn’t help but laugh as he watched them fight among themselves for his food.

“Why are you kids okay with each other’s saliva?”

“Because we’re siblings, duh!” they replied in unison.

Siblings, huh… This clean freak stuff sure reminds me of— Oh, snap! I haven’t gone to see Boss after I got here!

“You kids really have inherited your daddy’s weird behavior!”

“Daddy just likes being clean!” Gavin retorted.

Kingsley let out a mischievous chuckle. “Aw, you made up with your daddy already?”

Gavin snorted. “No! I’m just telling the truth, that’s all!”

Kingsley gave him a light pinch on the nose. “Gavin, do you even realize that you’ve changed?”

Zachary, Oliver, Jasper, and Jesse all turned to look at Gavin in unison.

“What do you mean? How have I changed?” Gavin asked.

“You’ve become a lot more talkative!” Kingsley replied with an affectionate smile.

Gavin pursed his lips tightly in response.

“Hehe… It’s a nice change, though. You barely spoke back then. Heck, you even ignored me sometimes!” Kingsley said with a relieved smile.

Looks like growing up with siblings similar in age does have a huge impact on a child’s personality! This kid has changed so much after spending time around his siblings and mother. He’s a completely different person compared to when he only had Boss around!

Zachary couldn’t help but feel bad for Gavin as he didn’t get to enjoy the life they had before.

They were a lot happier when being around their mommy.

“I’m not as talkative as you are!” Gavin snapped back at Kingsley.

“I’m not talkative! I’m being socially active! Not everyone goes around acting all cold and aloof like you and your daddy, you know? You can’t just respond to others with a glance when they talk to you! Nobody knows what you’re thinking or trying to say!” Kingsley protested.

 

Chapter 292 They Still Care About You

“Honestly, I don’t get why Daddy would befriend a talkative person like you!” Gavin replied with a defiant snort.

Zachary was curious about that as well. “You really are exceptionally talkative, Mr. Watts!” he said with a cheeky grin.

“You too? Boohoo…”

Kingsley stared at them with sad puppy dog eyes.

“Jasper is as talkative as you are!” Zachary added.

Jasper shot him an angry look. “Hey! I’m not that talkative!”

Oliver snickered. “Yes, you are! You’re the most talkative one whenever we’re together!”

Suddenly, Kingsley noticed that Jesse had been rather quiet and turned to look at her, only to realize she had finished his entire plate of pasta.

So, that’s why she was so quiet… She was eating the whole time!

“Hehe… Hi, Mr. Watts!”

Jesse flashed him a smile when she realized she had been caught in the act. She looked so adorable with her dimples and innocent face that Kingsley couldn’t even get mad at her.

“Don’t you feel bloated after eating so much?” Kingsley asked while ruffling her short hair.

The fact that Benjamin was still unaware that he had a daughter amused Kingsley to no end.

Jesse shook her head. “Nope!”

“Jesse has a really huge appetite!” Jasper added with a chuckle.

That was the reason Jesse looked a little chubbier than the other siblings.

“You kids want anything else? I’ll go get you some food from downstairs!” Kingsley asked.

“We’ll eat downstairs. Mr. Whitley should have the food ready by now,” Gavin replied as he headed downstairs with the other siblings following closely behind him.

Kingsley too, went downstairs with them out of curiosity.

The kids ran straight for the dining room when they detected the fragrant aroma coming from inside.

“What did you make, Mr. Whitley?” Oliver asked while swallowing excitedly.

“Popcorn chicken! Go sit down at the table. I’ll serve it up in a minute!” Edwin replied with a loving smile when he saw them standing at the door.

He then brought them a plate of it and watched as they happily helped themselves to the food.

“It’s delicious!” Jesse commented while licking her lips.

“Feel free to eat as much as you like. There’s more in the kitchen! It’s hot, so make sure to slow down or you might burn your tongue!” Edwin reminded them before heading back into the kitchen to heat up some milk.

Kingsley ate a few pieces of popcorn chicken and went off to see Benjamin in the study.

“You sure are energetic today, Boss!” he exclaimed with a smile as he sat down in front of Benjamin’s desk.

“Not as energetic as you are!” Benjamin retorted with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

Kingsley had actually stayed up the entire night and only slept for a few hours by the time he got home.

As he couldn’t go back to sleep after waking up, he decided to get out of bed.

“I couldn’t sleep after having a nightmare!” Kingsley ranted.

Benjamin looked up at him and asked, “Why did you tell Gavin and the others that I was sick? You’ll just make them worry about me.”

“You’re all better now, aren’t you? They won’t be so worried if they find out after you’ve recovered. I told them about it on the way here, and you should’ve seen how anxious they got! They kept urging me to drive faster! This shows that they still care about you a lot! What, are you not happy that your kids are concerned about you?” Kingsley replied with a chuckle.

Chapter 293 We Missed You

They only found out on their way here? If so, why did they come back in advance? Could it be that Arissa asked them to come back?

Benjamin narrowed his eyes at the thought of that, much to Kingsley’s amusement.

“Are you seriously not happy that they care about you?”

Benjamin shot him a cold glare. “Mind your own business!”

“Whatever, I’m going to play with the kids now!” Kingsley said and began walking toward the door.

“Don’t let them do anything crazy!” Benjamin called out to him from his desk.

Kingsley looked back at him and replied with a smile, “Kids need to be more active to ensure proper growth, Boss! I mean, just look at Gavin! Doesn’t he look a lot happier now? He used to be so quiet when he was around you all the time. Heck, he even got—”

He quickly stopped himself from saying any further when he noticed the warning glare from Benjamin. “I-I’ll be on my way now!” he blurted while running toward the dining room.

Benjamin did notice that Gavin had changed significantly for the better.

Hearing the kids chatting happily in the dining room brought a smile to his face.

Arissa was still a little unused to seeing the beautiful chandelier in the room when she woke up. It took her a while to remember where she actually was.

She turned to her side and lay lazily in bed, completely unaware that the kids were already home.

It wasn’t until she noticed the smell of the milk that she realized the kids had returned.

Arissa quickly got out of bed when she heard the sound of their laughter coming from downstairs. After washing her face and changing into a fresh set of clothes, she stood by the stairs and watched them play with Kingsley for a while.

“Hey, sweethearts!” Arissa called out to them while making her way down.

“Ah, Mommy’s awake!” Jesse exclaimed excitedly and ran toward her.

The other four joined in as well. “Mommy!”

“We’ve missed you, Mommy!”

All five of them threw themselves at her the moment she got to the bottom of the stairs.

They had the smell of milk on them as they cuddled up in her embrace.

Arissa hugged them tightly as she replied, “Aww, I’ve missed you kids too!”

“Hehe!” The kids smiled happily at her.

“Are you hungry, Mommy? Mr. Whitley made us a lot of food! There’s milk too!” Gavin asked.

Arissa ruffled his hair as she replied, “Now that you’ve mentioned it, I am a little hungry!”

“You can go sit down in the living room, Mommy! I’ll bring you the food!” Gavin shouted while running off to fetch the food.

“I’ll go help out too!”

“Me too!”

“Count me in!”

Oliver and Jasper too, followed him into the kitchen.

Noticing that Jesse was about to join them as well, Arissa quickly scooped her into her arms. “You don’t have to help with the food, Sweetheart. Your brothers can handle it, so you stay right here and keep me company instead. I want to see if you’ve been eating well lately.”

“I’ve been eating a lot, Mommy! Even Grandpa was shocked by how much I ate when we were at his place!” Jesse said.

Arissa gave her a pat on the head and asked, “Did you have a good time over at Grandpa’s?”

Jesse nodded and replied with a pout, “I did! I’ve just been missing you, Mommy!”

Hearing that put a smile on Arissa’s face as she carried Jesse to the living room.

“Hello, Mrs. Graham!” Kingsley greeted Arissa upon seeing her.

“You can just call me Arissa!” she said after a brief pause.

“No can do! Boss will kill me if he hears me addressing you by name!” Kingsley replied jokingly.

Chapter 294 Give Me The Green Light

Unsure of how to respond to that, Arissa tried to change the topic. “Aren’t you tired from your lack of sleep? Why come play with the kids instead of getting some sleep?”

Kingsley had stayed up the whole night, so how is he still so energetic?

“I had a nightmare and couldn’t go back to sleep. Anyway, I am feeling a little tired now. Do you mind if I sleep here, Mrs. Graham?” Kingsley said.

“Why are you asking me? This is Benjamin’s place, so you should be asking him for permission instead!” Arissa retorted.

Kingsley chuckled. “Boss won’t say no if you give me the green light!”

Arissa fell speechless as she wondered if she really did have that much authority.

“You can sleep in our room if you’re tired, Mr. Watts. That way, Mr. Graham won’t be mad at you!” Jesse suggested with her hands wrapped around Arissa’s neck.

“That’s a good idea, but will your brothers allow it? They’re such clean freaks, after all!” Kingsley said when he saw the four kids running toward them.

“You could just take a shower before sleeping in our room!” Jesse replied.

Arissa patted her on the head and said with a chuckle, “He’s just messing with you, Jesse. We have a guest room, so he doesn’t need to sleep in your room at all!”

Benjamin and Kingsley were close friends, so he wouldn’t stop him from sleeping over anyway.

Gavin glanced at Kingsley when he heard what Arissa said.

“Why would you want to sleep in our room when you have a guest room available? Where are we going to sleep, then?”

Kingsley burst out laughing. “Calm down, Gavin. I was just teasing Jesse for a bit.”

“Hmph! You’re such a meanie, Mr. Watts!” Jesse exclaimed in annoyance.

Gavin sat down beside Arissa with a plate full of food. “Hurry up and try this, Mommy!”

Zachary, Oliver, and Jasper all came over with plates of food as well.

“Here you go, Mommy! We’ve already eaten, so we’re very full right now!”

“All right, put it down on the table. I can eat it by myself.”

Arissa then sat Jesse down on the couch before calling out to Kingsley, “Would you like to have some, Mr. Watts?”

“Oh, I already ate with them earlier. You go on ahead, Mrs. Graham!”

“Okay, then. Don’t mind if I do!”

“You don’t have to be so formal around me, Mrs. Graham! Besides, doesn’t everything here belongs to you anyway?” Kingsley teased.

“Please don’t say that in front of other people, Mr. Watts. They might get the wrong idea and think I own this place!” Arissa replied.

I’m just staying here. Everything in this place belongs to Benjamin.

“All right, let your mommy have her meal in peace, kids. Come play with me instead!” Kingsley called out to them.

Zachary shot him a glance. “We’ve been playing with you for a while. Right now, we want to keep Mommy company!”

“But your Mommy is right here, isn’t she? She’s not going anywhere, so why would you stick to her like glue? How about we go have some fun outside?” Kingsley suggested.

To his surprise, the kids weren’t tempted by his offer in the slightest.

“No, thanks!”

Kingsley could only rub his nose awkwardly in response to their rejection. He really envied Arissa for being surrounded by such adorable children.

While sipping on some milk, Arissa noticed Jesse staring and handed her the glass.

Jesse happily took a tiny sip of it before saying, “You should drink more of it, Mommy!”

“I’m staying home today, so you kids can go out to play!” Arissa said with a smile as she continued eating the rest of the food.

I can’t go anywhere if Benjamin is home anyway… Speaking of Benjamin, he’s probably busy in his study right now, isn’t he?

With that in mind, Arissa glanced at the study.

“Mrs. Graham, why don’t you bring Boss some food?” Kingsley suggested when he saw where she was looking.

“Why don’t you do it?” Arissa asked with a smile.

“You see, Boss will be happy if you bring him the food. If I do it, he’ll just roll his eyes at me in disgust!” Kingsley replied while munching on an apple.

Zachary stared at him. “Then why did you go see him in the study earlier?”

 

Chapter 295 Why Not Call Him Daddy

“Yeah! You were in there for quite a long time too!” Oliver chimed in.

“It wasn’t that long! I came running out the moment your daddy gave me the glare of death!” Kingsley protested.

Arissa chuckled in amusement. She then grabbed a plate of fruits and snacks before heading over to the study.

“Mommy is going to see Mr. Graham!” Jesse exclaimed.

Arissa turned around and corrected her, “You should call him ‘Daddy’!”

Jesse simply stuck her tongue out in response.

Kingsley looked at them and asked out of curiosity, “Why aren’t you kids calling him ‘Daddy’?”

“Because we’re still trying to determine if he’s worthy of being our daddy!” Jasper replied while leaning against the back of his chair.

Kingsley walked up to him and gave him a light pinch on the cheek. “And how would he be considered worthy?”

Let’s see if I can help Boss find out more information to help him out!

“What do you think?” Zachary and Oliver said in unison.

“I think he’s your daddy, to begin with. Refusing to call him ‘Daddy’ won’t change that fact at all,” Kingsley replied with a chuckle.

The kids pouted upon hearing that.

“You’re right, Mr. Watts. But we still have the right to choose whether we call him ‘Daddy’ or not!” Oliver said with a mischievous grin.

“It’s true that he’s our daddy, but we can also choose not to treat him as such if he doesn’t do his job well!” Zachary added with a defiant snort.

“Yeah! I’m with Zachary on this one!” Jasper expressed his support for Zachary.

Jesse raised her hand. “Me too!”

“I agree with Oliver and Zachary. Daddy will need to earn their respect if he wants them to call him ‘Daddy’!” Gavin stated.

“So, how would your daddy prove himself?” Kingsley asked curiously.

“By treating our mommy well, duh! We won’t forgive him if he bullies Mommy!” Zachary declared defiantly.

The other kids all nodded in agreement.

I see… Even Gavin is on Arissa’s side, huh? Man, I feel bad for Benjamin already! Kingsley thought to himself.

Arissa was unaware of that conversation as she was bringing the food to Benjamin in the study.

“You should take a break and have some snacks, Mr. Graham!”

Benjamin simply shot her a quick glance before shifting his gaze back to his documents.

Arissa was about to leave when he called out to her all of a sudden, “Come here!”

His deep voice was so attractive that she found herself pausing in her tracks.

“Yes?” she responded while turning around.

Benjamin pointed at the files scattered on the desk and said, “Rearrange these documents.”

Seeing as he was busy, Arissa stepped forward and did as told without saying anything.

Benjamin then handed her another folder and ordered, “Check if this one has any issues.”

Arissa was a little confused, but she examined the document anyway.

A smile formed on Benjamin’s face as he admired her serious expression. “Well?”

Arissa looked at him and said, “The contract looks fine overall, but our company wouldn’t profit much out of this collaboration. In fact, the other party would stand to gain a lot more than us. Why are we working with them, Mr. Graham?”

Benjamin felt genuinely impressed that she figured it out so quickly.

“That’s a question for the project manager,” he replied while tossing that contract aside.

Arissa poured him a glass of water. “You should take a break. Aren’t you feeling drowsy from your medication?”

Benjamin had been busy working since he returned from lunch.

He arched an eyebrow in surprise when he heard the concern in her voice.

 

Chapter 296 What Do You Dislike

Arissa’s heart skipped a beat when they accidentally made eye contact.

Despite averting her gaze, her heart pounded even faster.

“Are you worried about me?”

As Benjamin’s magnetic voice rang out, it rumbled through her ears with a tingling sensation.

Giggling, Arissa stared at him. “I am.”

Benjamin’s smile widened while the look in his eyes grew more intense.

After sneaking a couple of glances at him, Arissa blushed. “You should relax and continue once you have recovered.”

Raising his brows, Benjamin took a sip of water.

Arissa served him some snacks. “What would you like for dinner?”

Having finished the snack, Benjamin replied, “Cook something delicious for me!”

Arissa stared at him. What kind of answer is that?

“In that case, is there anything you can’t eat?”

Benjamin shot her a glance. “Just ask Edwin.”

Arissa was speechless.

“Why are you telling me to ask someone else about your preference? I might as well cook Edwin’s favorite dishes.”

Benjamin’s gaze darkened. “Anything is fine as long as it isn’t spicy.”

When Arissa saw his grumpy expression, she beamed. “Didn’t you eat spicy food previously?”

He had consumed a lot of spicy food at the holiday home.

Having been reminded of it, Benjamin’s expression darkened.

After returning from the trip, his stomach felt terrible until this very day.

When she saw how Benjamin was glaring at her, she promised, “Fine. I won’t make it spicy. Nevertheless, you still have to tell me what your favorite food is.”

“Mushroom chicken and poached fish.” Benjamin gave her a look.

Arissa nodded in acknowledgment. “I’ll check with Edwin if there’s any fish available.”

When she turned and left, Benjamin watched her go.

Smiling subconsciously, he continued consuming his snacks.

After confirming with Edwin that all the ingredients she needed were available, Arissa’s mind was put at ease.

Subsequently, she went to the living room and asked the children, “Kids, what would you like for dinner? I’ll be cooking tonight.”

“Wow! Mommy, can you steam some eggs?”

Jesse ran up to her and hugged her thigh.

Tousling her hair, Arissa replied, “Of course!”

After all, steaming eggs were easy.

“Mommy, I want to have fish!” Jasper raised his hand.

Arissa chuckled. “It’s already on the menu.”

Zachary’s eye lit up. “Mommy, tell us what else are you making, and we can add on to it!”

“Mushroom chicken, fish, and steam eggs!”

Beaming at Gavin, Zachary, and Oliver, Arissa asked, “What would the three of you like to have?”

“We enjoy anything you cook. Therefore, you can decide,” Gavin answered with a smile.

Touched by his response, Arissa asked her son again, “Is there anything special that you like? Since it’s still early, I have time to prepare them.”

Gavin pondered a moment. “I would like some hot lasagna.”

Although it was a spicy dish, Arissa decided to make it for the children still. As for Benjamin, he would just have to avoid it.

Zachary added, “Mommy, I would like to have some steak!”

Oliver chimed in, “Mommy, I want some roast chicken!”

After Gavin placed his order, the brothers didn’t want to be left out.

Arissa nodded. “Together with one vegetable, we’ll have a total of seven dishes.”

She turned to look at Kingsley. “Mr. Watts, what would you like to have?”

“All the dishes sound tantalizing. There’s no need for me to add to them. I’ll just have what everyone is having.”

Kingsley didn’t dare order anything for fear that Benjamin wouldn’t allow him to come over for food anymore.

“All right then, I’ll cook all these for dinner. You guys can go on out to play.”

Arissa sent Edwin out to buy some roast chicken before retrieving all the ingredients she needed.

After playing with Kingsley for a while, the five children skipped over to help her.

“Mommy, we’re here to assist you.”

Arissa grinned at the children. “There’s no need for you to help. You guys should just go play.”

After all, the children didn’t know how to clean the fish and chicken. As for the vegetables and mushrooms, those didn’t take much work.

 

Chapter 297 Gavin Learns To Cook

“We can help you wash the steak and vegetables. In fact, we even know how to prepare the eggs!”

Just as Zachary spoke, he began to get his hands dirty.

As for the other four children, they too joined in to help.

Arissa was amused. “Be careful. Don’t cut yourself on the bone.”

After the steak was sliced, she proceeded to wash the chicken and cut it into small pieces.

“Mommy, isn’t it exhausting for you to prepare so many dishes alone?”

Watching Arissa, Gavin was astounded by her knife skills.

Arissa glanced at her son. “Not at all, they’re not difficult dishes to prepare anyway.”

“Mommy, if it’s too much for you, you can get Mr. Whitley to help,” Gavin suggested attentively.

“Hmm, but I have sent out him to buy roast chicken. Anyway, it’ll just take me an hour to do all this.”

“Mommy, do you want to cook the pasta now?” Oliver asked.

When Zachary was being squeezed by Jasper and Jesse, he decided to back away and let the three of them do it.

“Hmm. Yes we can.”

Looking around the kitchen, Arissa pointed her son to a pot.

“I’ll get it!” Gavin seized upon the opportunity.

Breaking into a smile, Oliver teased Gavin, “Do you even know how to do it?”

“I can always learn!” Gavin blushed.

Arissa looked at them in amusement. Given that Gavin was raised by Benjamin, he had probably never done any chores in his life.

“Oliver, stop making fun of Gavin! Have you forgotten about the time you burned the pasta?” Arissa reminded him of his embarrassing history.

Gavin’s eyes lit up. “So, you have never done it before either!”

Oliver felt awkward. “But I know how to do it now.”

“In that case, teach me!” Gavin had stopped teasing him.

Oliver nodded.

“All right then. Mommy, how many cups of water do we need to boil the pasta?” Oliver asked as he let Gavin handle the pasta.

Arissa turned to look. “Let me see how big the cup is.”

When Gavin raised the measuring cup in his hand, Arissa’s lips twitched.

The cup is so much bigger that what I have at home!

Meeting the children’s gazes, Arissa made a rough estimate. “Three cups I suppose, and make sure they’re full!”

After all, too much water would spoil the pasta’s consistency.

With that, Gavin carefully filled the pot with water.

“Remember to hold it with both your hands!” Oliver was supervising him.

Gavin then did as he was told.

“Is this all right?” Gavin ask humbly.

“Just a little more will do.”

“Remember to add more water, or else it will dry out,” Arissa reminded both of them.

Once Gavin filled the pot, he measured the water level before letting Oliver check.

Nonetheless, he felt it better to confirm with Arissa. “Mommy, is this enough?”

“Yes, it is. You’re amazing!” Arissa praised her son, filling him with a sense of achievement.

When he turned around, he saw Oliver drying the surrounding area with a cloth.

“We have to make sure the stove is dry before turning on the fire.”

“Mmm-hmm.” Gavin committed what he saw to memory.

When Zachary had cleaned the steak, Jasper was done with the mushrooms too.

As for Jesse, she had finished rinsing the vegetables.

Consequently, the three siblings put the ingredients they had washed neatly together.

Zachary asked, “Mommy, do the mushrooms need to be cut?”

“Yes, but you don’t have to do it. Go out and play. I’ll handle the rest,” Arissa urged.

“Mommy, we’ll help you to wash the plates!” Zachary didn’t want to leave.

When she saw how much they wanted to do the chores, Arissa was nonplussed but relented in the end.

“Remember to wash the cutlery too.”

“All right!”

Gavin quickly led his younger siblings to take out the plates and cutlery for washing.

When Kingsley saw all six of them busy in the kitchen, he went over to help.

 

Chapter 298 Wanting Some Privacy

“Kingsley!” When Benjamin’s voice rang out from the study, Kingsley turned around and walked in.

“Benjamin, what’s up?”

Kingsley grinned at Benjamin. When he noticed the empty plate on the table, his smile broadened.

Just as expected, Arissa does have an impact on him.

Benjamin sharpened his gaze at Kingsley. “Aren’t you going home?”

With a twitch of his lips, Kingsley took a seat opposite Benjamin. Leaning back, he then put his feet on a corner of the table.

When Benjamin glared at his feet, Kingsley had no choice but to take it off and cross his legs instead.

“I’ll leave after dinner. Don’t tell me you’re not allowing it, are you? Mrs. Graham has invited me to stay for dinner.”

Even though Benjamin felt that “Mrs. Graham” had a nice ring to it, he replied, “She’s just being polite.”

“I don’t care. I’ll leave once I’ve eaten. After all, I did send the children home. Are you really going to show me no mercy by chasing me out?”

“I didn’t ask you to do it!” Benjamin snorted as he didn’t want them home.

Widening his eyes, Kingsley stared at Benjamin intently. When it finally dawned upon him, he let out a cheeky laugh.

“You’re blaming me? Looks like you were looking forward to having some privacy. Why don’t I send them back to your dad’s place?”

Benjamin rolled his eyes at him. “Anyway, just help me keep an eye on what the media has to say about them.”

Kingsley nodded. “Don’t worry, I will. What did Mr. Patterson say?”

“Life imprisonment!” Benjamin answered frostily.

Kingsley nodded. “I’m surprised that she has plotted against you for so many years. Benjamin, haven’t you suspected her before?”

Suddenly, Benjamin emitted a bloodthirsty vibe.

Previously, he had his suspicions but didn’t have any incriminating evidence.

After all, she had schemed for a long time to take advantage of him.

Sensing the change in Benjamin’s mood, Kingsley didn’t continue the topic.

Since Benjamin had left Jonathan in charge of the case, all they had to do now was wait for the verdict.

“Benjamin, it’s not easy for Mrs. Graham to care for the four children alone. Thus, if you’re interested in her, you had better be more overt about it. Or else, she might leave with your children.”

When Benjamin rolled his eyes at him, Kingsley chuckled. “I’ll check in on Mrs. Graham and see if she needs any help.”

With that, Kingsley quickly slipped out.

After sitting for a while longer, Benjamin followed him outside too.

“Mrs. Graham, do you need any help?” Kingsley asked with a smile as he walked into the kitchen.

Arissa turned to grin at him and replied, “No, I’m fine. You should go ahead and have a seat.”

“Kids, go play with Mr. Watts!” she instructed the five children.

After all, it was dangerous for them to be in the kitchen, as they were at risk of getting splattered with hot oil if she wasn’t careful.

“Mr. Watts, you should leave. You managed to arrive only after we have done everything,” Zachary ridiculed him.

“Exactly!” Oliver and Jasper added.

Jesse narrowed her eyes, “Mr. Watts, do you know how to cook? Why don’t you help Mommy cook instead?”

Kingsley placed his hands into his pockets. “If I cook, I’m worried that all of you will get a tummy ache at night!”

“Mr. Watts, you had better leave the kitchen and not get in the way of Mommy cooking.” Gavin pushed Kingsley out.

Chuckling in response, Kingsley joked when he saw Benjamin approach, “Your kids really resent me being here.”

Benjamin shot him a icy glare.

When they children looked at Benjamin, he pointed outside.

“Go out and play!”

With that, the children quickly ran out.

As for Kingsley, he didn’t dare linger when he saw Benjamin’s stern expression. Hence, he followed the children out of the kitchen.

“Wait, Mr. Watts. Why are you running so quickly? Is there a beast chasing after you?”

Meanwhile, Benjamin walked up to Arissa and looked at what she was cooking.

Arissa turned toward him. “Aren’t you busy?”

“I came to check if you’ve made my favorite dishes.”

When Benjamin shot her a glance, Arissa’s lips twitched.

 

Chapter 299 Did You Wash Your Hair

She snorted, “Why would I ask you if I wasn’t planning on making them?”

Benjamin snorted in return. This woman is getting feistier by the day.

“If you can’t cope, get Edwin to help you!”

Arissa was taken aback by Benjamin’s instructions.

She stared at him with a smile. “I know. I’ve asked Edwin to buy me a roast chicken.”

When Benjamin locked eyes with her, he felt as if they were a siren calling out to him.

He raised his hand to pinch her cheeks before leaving the kitchen.

Arissa’s face reddened in response.

Running his fingers over where he pinched her, she could feel her heart pounding.

His reaction is certainly baffling.

After regaining her senses from his beguiling gesture, she continued cooking dinner.

Soon, Edwin returned just when Arissa finished preparing the first dish.

“Mrs. Graham, let me help you!”

Arissa laughed awkwardly.

“Edwin, don’t call me that. You’re embarrassing me!”

Edwin chuckled. “You’ll get used to it sooner or later. Besides, you’ll soon take on the title officially.”

Arissa felt abashed. “You should wait till then to call me that.”

Edwin laughed as he put away the roast chicken to be warmed.

“Edwin, can you take over the stove for me. I need to prepare the eggs,” Arissa instructed and proceeded to steam the eggs.

After that, she returned to grill the fish.

“All right now, I’ll take over.”

Edwin was no match for her in the kitchen.

Within one hour, Arissa prepared all the dishes.

“Ms. York, you should take a break. Let me set the table instead,” Edwin offered.

Grinning, Arissa didn’t insist. After she took off her apron, she went to the study to get Benjamin for dinner.

However, when she didn’t find him there, she went to check the living hall.

There, she heard the children’s laughter outside and walked out instead.

Nevertheless, she only saw Kingsley and the five kids. There was no sign of Benjamin.

“Did you guys see Benjamin?”

Kingsley turned to look at her. “Isn’t he in the study?”

“I didn’t see him there.”

Arissa figured that Benjamin was somewhere in the house still. Hence, she went upstairs to check.

“Mommy, is it time for dinner?” Jesse gulped.

Mommy’s cooking is so delicious that I can even smell it outside.

“Mmm-hmm. We can start once I find Daddy. Mr. Watts, please bring the children to wash their hands, as we’re about to have dinner.”

After making the request, Arissa headed upstairs.

Upon entering his bedroom, she saw Benjamin coming out of the bathroom. “It’s time for dinner.”

Benjamin glanced at her. “Mmm-hmm.”

Arissa scrutinized him a bit. “Are you feeling better?”

Benjamin pulled up his shirt and exposed his abdomen.

Jolted by his action, Arissa checked intently to see if the allergy was still there.

“There’s a little left still. I’ll help you apply the medication after dinner.”

Benjamin walked up to her and placed his hand on the top of her head. “Let’s go!”

However, Arissa ducked and avoided his hand, causing Benjamin to give her the side-eye.

A cheeky smile broke out on her face. “Mr. Graham, please don’t pet my head like you would do a dog. It makes my hair oily!”

With glistening eyes, Benjamin lifted some of her fringes and smelled them.

He complained, “Arissa, how many days have you not washed your hair? It smells nasty.”

Arissa pulled back her hair and sniffed.

“It’s not nasty at all. It smells of… the food I was cooking just now!”

“It stinks!” Benjamin broke out a devilish smile before walking in front of her.

Feeling exasperated, Arissa stared at his figure.

“Why don’t you stay in the kitchen for two hours and see if you become just as smelly?” she bellowed.

Who can still smell nice after doing their chores? He’s nuts!

With his back facing her, Benjamin smiled smugly to himself.

She looks adorable trying to explode at something so trivial.

 

Chapter 300 Why Are You Nervous

Suddenly, they heard a commotion downstairs. When Benjamin realized who had arrived, he furrowed his brows for a fleeting moment before regaining his composure.

Following behind him, Arissa heard it too.

Thus, she asked curiously, “Who is it?”

Is it a good idea for me to go down? It sounds like an elder of the family.

Chuckling at her question, Benjamin turned around to look at her.

When her eyes met Benjamin’s mischievous gaze, Arissa blinked before glaring back at him.

“What is it?”

“Old Mr. Graham is here!”

When Benjamin saw the shock on her face, he stared at her with a knowing smile.

“In that case, is it appropriate for me to go down?”

Why is his father here? Arissa grew anxious for no reason.

“Why are you feeling nervous? It’s not like you’re going to meet your in-laws,” Benjamin teased.

Arissa glared at him. “Do you really not mind that I go down with you?”

Benjamin snorted lightly. “Why? Are you afraid of meeting my dad? Are you feeling self-conscious still?”

“I’m not!”

Arissa was perplexed. There’s nothing for me to feel self-conscious about. I’m just worried that Old Mr. Graham gets the wrong idea.

Nonetheless, it didn’t matter if she did as she was now together with Benjamin.

Letting out a gentle snort, she walked past him and headed downstairs.

Meanwhile, Darius was having a good time surrounded by the children.

After all, they were delighted to see him.

“Grandpa, why didn’t you tell us you were coming?” Oliver asked with a smile.

“If I told you in advance, would you still be at home waiting for me?”

Beaming at the five children, Darius was filled with elation.

When he heard that they had returned quietly, he was slightly disappointed.

However, after learning that Benjamin and Arissa were home, he decided to visit them unannounced.

“We will! We welcome you to play with us anytime.”

Jesse looked at Darius and giggled gleefully.

Given that Darius loved girls, his heart was warmed by how cute she was.

He bent down and picked Jesse up.

Pinching her nose affectionately, he asked, “Is your mommy at home?”

Jesse nodded. “She is. She went to get Daddy for dinner.”

Darius nodded. The thought of being able to meet his future daughter-in-law simply delighted him.

“Grandpa, when you see Mommy later, remember not to look too stern. Or else, you’ll end up scaring her,” Gavin reminded with concern.

Darius was nonplussed. “Do I look strict like that?”

Looking at him, Gavin tried to hide his laughter.

Instead, Zachary replied, “This is all right.”

“Grandpa, are you actually here to see Mommy?” Jasper eyed Darius suspiciously.

Darius burst into hearty laughter and stoke his head. “Since your mommy isn’t free to come to my place, I came over to visit her instead. After all, I’ve all the time in the world.”

The children exchanged glances and laughed alongside him. “Mommy will definitely be nervous to see you.”

“Oh? Why is that?” Darius was intrigued.

Kingsley, who was lying back on the sofa, interrupted, “Obviously, it’s just like an ugly daughter-in-law meeting the parents!”

“Mr. Watts, Mommy isn’t ugly at all!” Jesse retorted as she glared at Kingsley.

“You’re the one that’s ugly!”

When the other four children stared daggers at him. He quickly raised his hands to surrender.

“It’s just something people say. I don’t really mean that your mommy is ugly.”

The quintuplets snorted angrily at him again.

Amused, Darius pacified them, “Given how cute all of you are, there’s no way she can be ugly.”

The children nodded in unison. “Mommy is the prettiest lady in the world!”

No son would ever think their mother ugly.

Darius narrowed his gaze. They are such filial children.

Even though Kingsley was rendered speechless, he couldn’t deny how pretty Arissa was.

As for Arissa, she was equally stumped. The moment she arrived downstairs, she was embarrassed by the children’s praise for her.