Chapter 459

Asking Alexander wasn't feasible, but tactical detours remained. Brandon, preoccupied lately, was flirting with his crush on his phone, his feet propped on his desk, when Brittany burst in. Caught off guard, his surprise was evident before he smoothly recovered. "Wow, what a surprise! You rarely come here!"

He glanced sideways, adding sarcastically, "You brought food, too? Don't tell me you came just to bring me food." Brittany laughed, approaching him directly. She placed the cake and coffee on his desk. "You're right. I bought it for you on purpose. Happy now?"

"Really?" He immediately lowered his feet, sitting upright and leaning forward. "Yo, it's my favorite red velvet and caramel macchiato! You really did buy this for me. How nice of you!" He held the cake carefully, his expression grateful, but he showed no intention of opening it. "If it makes you feel loved, then try some." Brittany quickly pulled up a chair opposite him. Brandon shook his head vehemently. "No, no, no. I'm not going to eat it."

"Isn't that your favorite? I purposely got this for you. Are you sure you're not going to eat it?" Brittany blinked, slightly opening the bag. The aroma of cream cheese, delightful yet tinged with the strong caramel scent she disliked, filled the air. She wrinkled her nose, shielding it with her hand. She needed a favor from him, hence the treat.

"Nope!" Brandon saw through her. "Go ahead. What's the matter?"

(Internal thought: How cruel.)

Smiling, Brittany said, "Nothing!"

"I don't believe it," Brandon replied, shaking his head. The cake was tempting, but he recognized it as a trap—indirectly, eating it meant promising to help his sister. He was reluctant but felt cornered.

Taking a deep breath, Brittany fought the urge to whack him, instead smirking patiently. "Aw, look at you! Either way, you're still my brother. Buying you food is a small act of kindness. I don't have other intentions. Why are you thinking so much?" Her honest demeanor seemed to sway him, slightly lowering his guard. He remained wary, however. "For real?"

"Forget it. Since you don't believe me, I'd better give the cake and macchiato to someone who appreciates them."

Brittany stood, about to take the cake away. "Hey, stop!" Brandon snatched the bag, immediately wanting to open the box. "You said it was for me. How can you give it to someone else? It's not good to take back a gift! Besides, the macchiato will get cold!"

He took two sips of the macchiato, scooped a spoonful of red velvet cake, and devoured it. His eyes rolled up in satisfaction. "Mm! This is the best cake in the world!" Leaning back, he was utterly blissful. "Delicious, right?" Brittany leaned forward, resting her elbows and chin on the table, gazing at him innocently.