Chapter 236
The light gray floor was covered in footprints.
Sunflower seed shells and snack wrappers were scattered everywhere.
Two black scuff marks marred the wall.
The constant buzz of chatter was giving her a headache.
Sophia Sullivan looked at Isabella.
Her mother offered a strained smile. "See what I mean?"
Sophia just wanted to turn around and leave.
But it was too late.
The relatives had already surrounded her.
"David's daughter is back? So pretty!"
"Getting your Master's at MIT, right? So accomplished!"
"Not married yet? Don't study so much you become an old maid!"
Sophia forced herself to respond with a few pleasantries.
She excused herself to use the restroom to escape.
She hurried upstairs to her room.
The door was open.
A quick check confirmed nothing was missing.
She sighed in relief and closed the door.
Dinner was takeout ordered by Isabella.
A dozen people ate, their mouths greasy.
David Sullivan was still the one washing dishes.
Great-Aunt Deborah stopped him. "Why are you doing this?"
David adjusted his apron. "Just cleaning the kitchen."
"Let your wife do it!"
"She has work."
"What work has to be done at night?"
"She can do it on her computer."
"It can't wait a moment longer?"
David smiled. "I usually handle the cleanup."
Great-Aunt Deborah's eyes widened. "You always do it?"
"Whoever has time does it."
"A man shouldn't be tied to the stove."
"My wife is the primary earner."
Great-Aunt Deborah was speechless. Was he actually proud of this?
David retreated into the kitchen, ending the conversation.
The old woman frowned, watching his efficient movements.
By nine PM, Sophia was exhausted.
She had just lain down when a tremendous crash echoed.
She rushed downstairs to investigate.
Two children had pulled the television onto the floor.
The screen was completely shattered.
Their parents scolded them, then offered apologies.
Their words were smooth. "David is doing so well now, this little amount doesn't matter, right?"
"Kids will be kids. Don't take it to heart."
David looked at the ruined TV, his heart aching.
Over ten thousand dollars.
He could only resign himself to the loss.
Early the next morning, Sophia was awakened by noise.
It wasn't even six yet.
Downstairs, she found several women watching short dramas on their phones.
The volume was blaring.
Isabella was jolted awake too.
Mother and daughter met at the top of the stairs.
Isabella touched Sophia's cheek. "Did they wake you?"
Sophia shook her head. "I'm going out to buy breakfast."
She fled the house.
Isabella looked at the chaotic living room and sighed.
Great-Aunt Deborah approached. "It's seven. Aren't you making breakfast?"
Isabella maintained her smile. "Sophia went to get breakfast."
"Buy it?" The old woman's voice rose. "That's so expensive outside! You just look down on us country folk!"
Isabella explained patiently. "Cooking for so many is troublesome. It's easier this way."
"My daughter-in-law never complains about cooking for dozens during harvest! You're just lazy! A woman's place is to serve her man!"
Isabella felt a vein throbbing at her temple.
The old woman grew more agitated. "I even brought you eggs back in the day! How did you turn out like this?"