Chapter 691

Sterling Manor buzzed with life after Nathan's departure.

Donovan and Emily took charge of breakfast preparations in the kitchen.

Anyone could guess this wasn't Donovan's idea.

Emily clearly sought this opportunity to showcase her domestic skills.

Natalie and Lucas assisted while young Oliver attended his morning lessons in the study.

Alexander concluded his video conference with overseas executives before descending the grand staircase.

Evelyn lounged on the velvet sofa, casually biting into a crisp apple when she spotted Alexander.

"Big Brother, joining the kitchen brigade?" She gestured toward the bustling kitchen with her fruit.

Evelyn had never witnessed Alexander near cooking appliances - this would be historic.

Three seconds of hesitation passed before Alexander shook his head. "No."

Evelyn exhaled dramatically, her smile turning playful.

"At this rate, you'll be the last single Sterling. Shouldn't you speed things up?"

Alexander's brow furrowed. "You and Lucas remain unattached too."

Only Donovan had escaped bachelorhood so far. Evelyn leaned closer with a knowing grin.

"Lucas has been auditioning potential brides for months. His engagement announcement could drop any day. As for me..." She twirled her apple stem. "Father claims he's lined up countless suitors. My matchmaking marathon begins tomorrow."

Alexander's lips twitched in disbelief.

William emerged wearing a striped apron, interrupting her fantasy.

"Stop daydreaming! That was just for show. No actual suitors exist, but you'll maintain the pretense, understood?"

Evelyn and Alexander exchanged exasperated glances.

Alexander noticed genuine disappointment flicker across Evelyn's face.

Breakfast commenced with Charles Sterling's arrival.

The family greeted him warmly - past tensions had dissolved. At the dining table, William and Charles occupied the head seats.

Brotherhood had smoothed over previous estrangements.

Donovan and Emily served their culinary creations.

Emily's breakfast spread featured creamy millet porridge, artisanal toast, and an array of delicate sides.

The presentation rivaled five-star hotel buffets.

"Please, try everything," Emily urged eagerly. Ravenous, Evelyn and Lucas both reached for the porridge simultaneously.

Their taste buds recoiled at the overwhelming salt assault.

They froze mid-bite, about to spit out the offensive mouthfuls when Donovan's warning glare stopped them.

In perfect synchronization, they forced swallows.

"Well?" Emily's hopeful eyes locked onto Evelyn.

Evelyn's smile never wavered. "Divine. The texture melts like silk, packed with nutrients. Emily, you're a culinary prodigy!"

Emily nearly bounced with joy. "Really? My first attempt following recipes! This is wonderful!"

Donovan smirked beside her. "Naturally. Our scientific precision translates perfectly to domestic arts."

Evelyn and Lucas stiffened imperceptibly. The table fell silent.

Each guest received a porridge portion. As Emily prepared to taste her creation, Donovan intercepted.

"Uncle Charles has legendary appetite - let's reserve seconds for him while we enjoy the toast."

Charles looked up sharply. Was that mockery?

William nodded approvingly. "How considerate our children have become. Charles, indulge without restraint!"

Only then did Charles relax.

His first porridge spoonful triggered immediate paralysis. Every swallow became an act of sheer willpower.