Monica, sharp as ever, immediately realized that the "stray cat" Declan mentioned earlier referred to Rafael. She couldn't help but enjoy her son's embarrassment.

Declan, well-practiced in the art of quick submission, immediately said to Rafael, "Raf, I am guilty. After dinner, I will definitely offer my apologies. But let's eat first. Look, these are the dishes Eileen prepared with great care. Aren't you going to join us?"

Bringing up Eileen proved to be an effective move.

Rafael moved to the table, never once glancing at Brian.

Ignored, Brian had no choice but to hold his tongue.

Although he and Rafael were love rivals, Brian wasn't like Jayden, who would...