Chapter 1135
But the sudden appearance of two strangers had Marissa feeling a bit twitchy about leaving her daughter-in-law alone.
She knew her presence was creating an awkward vibe, but she had no intention of ducking out. After picking up a glass of water from the table, she took a sip and said. “Did I hear you guys mention poker? I absolutely love poker; I just don’t get many chances to play. You wouldn’t mind me joining, would you?”
Chase was silent, and so was Ida.
Ellinor had a poker face on, not uttering a word.
Only Belinda managed an awkward chuckle and said, “Sure! Marissa, you can partner up with me.”
Marissa happily replied, “Sounds like a plan! When do we start?”
Everyone exchanged silent glances.
Finally, Ellinor spoke, “Let’s begin after lunch! I wouldn’t want my friends to starve while playing poker.”
Marissa could sense the irritation in Ellinor’s voice. She laughed awkwardly and replied, “Yeah, we’ll play after lunch. Don’t you worry, Ellinor, I wouldn’t dream of making your friends go hungry.”
Ellinor smiled, “Really? I thought the Blanchets were capable of anything.”
Marissa’s face faltered for a moment, but she managed to keep her smile warm.
Getting up, she said, “You guys chat; I’ll whip up lunch. I’m sure you guys will appreciate a home-cooked meal after your long journey.”
-Belinda politely stood up, “Marissa, I can help you.”
Marissa waved her off with a smile, “No need, just keep them company. I’ve got help.”
With the maid’s assistance, Marissa headed to the kitchen. As she passed Devin, she gave him a meaningful look.
Devin nodded, understanding her signal, and moved to stand behind Ellinor.
With Marissa gone and Devin stepping in, the conversation remained superficial. Nothing of substance was being discussed.
Ellinor thought for a moment, then whispered something into Baber’s ear.
Baber then got up, grabbed a cup from the table, and ran off.
Turning to Devin, Ellinor said, “I have guests, Devin. Can you look after Mr. Blanchet’s adopted son? I’m sure you don’t want him hurting himself with the cup. That would be on you guys.”
Devin was in a bind. He was glancing at Mrs. Blanchet and then at Baber, who was running off with the cup, not knowing what to do.
A maid had already gone after Baber. After some thought, Devin decided to stay put, “Mrs. Blanchet, Baber is being taken care of. You have nothing to worry about.”
Ellinor’s gaze hardened slightly, “So you’re saying that you’re willing to ignore the safety of Mr. Blanchet’s child just to eavesdrop on my conversation with my friends?”
Devin looked uncomfortable, “Mrs. Blanchet, what are you implying? I wouldn’t dare eavesdrop on your conversation. I’m just here to serve you and your friends and follow any instructions you may have.”
Ellinor gave a cold smile, “If you were truly concerned about serving my friends, you wouldn’t have conducted that ridiculous security check in the first place.”
Devin replied, “That was Mr. Blanchet’s directive…”
Ellinor waved him off, “Enough with the explanations! I just asked you to look after the boy; are you going or not?”
