Chapter 104: I Need a Favor

Caleb took a seat.

“Mom, I noticed you burned your hand a few days ago. Is it better now?”

Deborah was pleasantly surprised. “So, you noticed. Don’t worry, I’m fine. A bit of ointment and it’s healed now, look.” She extended her hand to reveal that it was perfectly healed without any scars.

“That’s a relief. I was thinking of applying some ointment for you.”

Caleb then lowered his head to eat, no longer looking at the couple.

George cleared his throat and said, “Caleb, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

“What is it?”

“Have you truly forgiven me and your mom? It seems like you’re still on guard against us.”

Caleb set down his fork and let out a long sigh. “Dad, I’m happy if you don’t mind the foolish things I’ve done in the past. How could I ever hold any resentment toward you?”

His gaze briefly swept over the thirteen dishes laid out on the table. “Mom’s been tirelessly cooking for me these past few days. I’m so touched, I don’t even know how to react. I have no reason to be on guard at all.”

George’s concerns were finally eased. “I’m glad you’re able to see it this way. No matter how many tough times we’ve been through, we’re still a family that can’t be torn apart. Try to keep things in perspective. When we let you down, focus on the good we’ve done for you. Don’t let resentment take root, okay?”

Though Caleb sneered inwardly, he nodded obediently. “Yes, Dad. In a few weeks, it will be your birthday. What would you like for your birthday gift?”

After giving it some thought, George replied, “There’s nothing I particularly want. Your love and affection are enough for me.”

“Well, I’ll think of another gift that might suit you. Giving just one thing feels too plain.”

With that, Caleb lowered his head and focused on eating, not intending to say anything further.

While he was distracted, George subtly nudged Deborah with his elbow, then shot a significant glance toward Caleb.

Picking up on his unspoken cue, Deborah said, “Caleb, I need a favor. Could you join me in your dad’s study after dinner?”

Without hesitation, Caleb replied, “Sure, I’ll go right after I finish eating.”

However, despite his claim, his actions were anything but prompt. He moved at an excruciatingly slow pace.

Deborah leaned her chin on her hand, her head nodding slightly as fatigue set in.

George, equally drained, struggled to keep his eyes open. “Caleb, have you finished eating? Once you’re done, I’ll call Agnes to clean up. It’s already late, and everyone else is asleep. We should call it a day soon.”

Caleb casually swallowed another mouthful of pasta and replied, “Not yet, Dad. Just give me a little more time. I’ll be done soon.”

“All right.”

George assumed he’d have to wait at most half an hour for Caleb to finish eating. Yet, he had dozed off on the table several times, and every time he opened his eyes, Caleb was still picking at his food, showing no intention of finishing. It was downright frustrating.

Once everything was settled, George was determined to deal with him. He closed his eyes once again, and this time, he slept for an entire hour.

When he woke up again, Caleb was nowhere to be seen. Eyes widening in surprise, he quickly nudged Deborah.

“Wake up! Caleb’s missing!”

The sleepiness instantly vanished from Deborah’s face. “What? Caleb’s missing?”

The two hurriedly sought out a housekeeper to inquire about Caleb’s whereabouts, only to learn that he had finished his meal half an hour earlier and had already gone to his room to sleep.

Only then did George realize he had been fooled by Caleb.