The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 823

McNeil Howard, sensing the guests' displeasure, decided to zip it.

No one seemed to care whether Xenia and Patricia had even taken their seats before digging in. The mother-daughter duo, feeling miffed, took their seats in silence.

The two respected elders and the power holders of the Howard family were all fussing over Ellinor, piling food onto her plate, fearful she might not like the food or miss out.

Patricia, the golden girl, was experiencing a level of neglect she'd never felt before.

She could barely stomach any food as her eyes burned holes into Ellinor and her heart filled with resentment.

Xenia noticed her daughter's emotional turmoil and gave her leg a gentle pat under the table, signaling Patricia to keep her cool.

Patricia calmed down and locked eyes with her mother. The two shared a knowing look, understanding each other's intent.

“Everyone's started eating? Why didn't anyone call me?” Byran Howard grumbled, trudging downstairs with a sour expression.

Balfour looked up at him sharply. “Did you finish your homework?”

Byran scratched his head nervously. “Balfour, I'm nearly done. I'm starving! Can I eat first and then finish it?”

Given that Ellinor had just devoured a fair share of his cooking, Balfour was in high spirits. He found his usually annoying little brother a tad more tolerable.

He replied curtly, “Go ahead. We have an important guest today. You should be here.”

Byran glanced at Ellinor. Was the whole family dining with Ellinor today?

Wow, Ellinor was a force to be reckoned with; even his big brother showed her respect.