Chapter 207

Maria’s pleasant mood soured when she saw the “little ingrate,” as she called him, instead of Serena’s friend. Just then, another woman, Claire, swept in, pulling Grayson away with a disgusted frown.

“Sonny, what are you doing here? This place is unsanitary!”

Maria’s sneer deepened. “Better get your little boy out of here before he gets sick from the air.”

Claire’s disdain flared. “Let’s go, Sonny. The driver’s waiting.”

Grayson planted his feet. “I’m eating here!”

“No, the food’s unclean!” Claire insisted, her stubbornness fueled by Maria’s earlier remark. Grayson, however, yanked his hand free. “I said I’m eating here! If you don’t listen, I’ll tell Grandma to fire you.”

Claire’s face paled. Lauren, Grayson’s grandmother, would do anything for him. “Fine,” she conceded.

Grayson happily slid into the booth next to Serena. Claire glared at Maria before seating herself at a nearby table. Maria shot Claire a venomous look, then softened, recognizing Grayson as Paisley's son. Letting out a sigh she decided to let it be.

Grayson scanned the restaurant. “Where’s she?” he asked Serena, hesitating before adding, “Your mom.”

Serena’s cheerful demeanor vanished. “I haven’t seen Mom in days.” The truth was, Paisley came home every night, but Serena was always asleep.

Grayson felt a pang of disappointment, yet a strange comfort. He wasn’t alone in his mother’s absence.

To lift Serena’s spirits, Maria pointed to the play area. “Rena, want to play?”

Serena’s mood swung instantly. “Yes!”

Grayson trailed behind as Maria carried Serena to the play area, Claire reluctantly following. Claire sneered at the simple playground. “He has a private playground at home, twice as big and much better! What’s wrong with him today?”

Maria rolled her eyes. “You talk like you’re his mother. What are you, but a nanny?”

Claire scoffed. “I’m Sonny Vanderbilt’s private tutor, providing full-scale care and scientific guidance. High-level talent.” She sneered. “Unlike you, a mere maid.”

Maria mimicked her. “High-level or not, you’re still an employee. What’s the difference?”

Stunned, Claire blamed Grayson for mentioning her dismissal. “Hmph, I won’t stoop to your level.”

Maria ignored her, watching Serena until their food arrived. Grayson rejoined them, and without asking, helped himself to Serena's meal. He took one bite, made a face, and tossed it aside.

“Why are you wasting food?” Maria snapped.

“It tastes bad,” Grayson retorted, unconcerned. At home, his dislikes were immediately replaced.

Maria was furious. “Is this how the Vanderbilts raise their children? Paisley would never tolerate this!” Turning to Serena, she added, “Ren, remember what Mommy said about wasting food?”

Serena thought a moment. “Mommy said it’s shameful.”

“That’s right,” Maria praised.

Grayson visibly cringed. Claire snapped, “Mind your own business! Sonny’s a Vanderbilt. He doesn’t need your lectures!”

To everyone’s surprise, Grayson quietly picked up the discarded food and began eating it.

“Sonny, if it’s not good, don’t eat it,” Claire said, shocked by his obedience.

A heavily-coated man entered. Maria found it odd; the weather wasn’t that cold. As he passed, she caught a whiff of sulfur and gasoline. Something felt wrong.