Anthony took a long puff from his cigarette and dismissed Kase with a wave. “Leave.”

As Kase closed the office door behind him, Anthony slumped back in his chair. The cigarette burnt down to his fingers unnoticed.

Claudia's words from their dinner echoed in his mind. "It's over, Anthony." It was all over now...

The news surrounding Claudia continued to linger throughout the afternoon, spreading among the social circle. It became common knowledge that Anthony had opted for Delilah over Claudia, his childhood sweetheart.

Many found Anthony's choice baffling. To everyone's surprise, Hazel Gordon, from the prestigious Gordon family who was always at odds with Claudia, took to social media to voice her support for Claudia.

Upon catching sight of Hazel's post, Aurora let out a sigh. She presented a screenshot to Claudia, remarking, “Look at this, Cece. Even Hazel seems to feel bad for you!"

Claudia and Hazel's relationship had been strained since their childhood. Hazel frequently set traps for Claudia during their school days. Their mutual animosity was such that coexisting in the same room was challenging.

Aurora viewed Hazel as heartless, akin to a cold, ruthless serpent.

Claudia had just concluded her piano practice. Viewing the screenshot, she let out a thoughtful sigh.

Even her enemy believed Anthony and Delilah had crossed a line. How did she endure it for so many years?

A sad smile tugged at Claudia's Lips.

She had indeed been too naive in the past.

There was a knock at the door. Snapped back to reality, Claudia called out, "Enter."

"Miss Marshall, any preferences for dinner tonight?"

It then dawned on Claudia it was already four in the afternoon.

Distracted from her phone, Claudia inquired, “Is my father joining me for dinner?" es, Mr. Marshall did mention this morning about joining for dinner."

“I see."

Resting her chin in her hand, Claudia traced her cheek with her finger her eyes suddenly sparkling. "May I prepare dinner tonight?"

“Absolutely!”

The housemaid responded cheerfully, “Mr. Marshall always speaks highly of your culinary skills. He will be overjoyed to have you cook for him tonight!"

“That's settled then. I'm cooking tonight!"

Claudia maneuvered her wheelchair towards the kitchen with the housemaid. It had been a while since she last cooked, making her chopping of vegetables and meat slightly rusty.