Chapter 5 A Father's Reflection

• Iris Residence.
• Athena bustled around the kitchen in a snug single apartment, clad in an apron. She was preparing dinner.
• Beside her, a young boy held a glass of milk, gazing curiously around. "Is this where Ms. Sinclair usually lives?"
• "Yeah," Athena replied casually as she placed the chopped vegetables onto a plate, "It's a small space, not as extravagant as your home."
• The young boy tilted his head and inquired, "Does Ms. Sinclair live alone here?"
• "Yep," Athena confirmed.
• "Does Ms. Sinclair not have any family?"
• "She does," Athena replied, "but they're not around, so she's usually by herself."
• The young boy fell silent momentarily, a hint of concern crossing his face. Quickly, he reached out and patted her reassuringly. "Don't worry, with me here now, we'll keep each other company."
• Athena couldn't help but chuckle.
• "He's quite the sage for his age," she mused.
• The more she looked at him, the more she grew fond of him.
• "Alright, I'm ready to cook," Athena declared. "It might get a bit smoky in here, so why don't you go outside and relax for a bit? It won't take long."
• "Okay," the young boy agreed.
• The young boy nodded obediently and sauntered outside, settling himself comfortably on the sofa to wait.
• Meanwhile, Athena rolled up her sleeves and got to work in the kitchen.
• Athena, accustomed to cooking as a means of saving money, showcased her culinary prowess in the kitchen.
• In less than an hour, she prepared three savory dishes and a comforting soup, each exuding tantalizing aromas and vibrant flavors.
• There was seafood, ribs, and vegetables. The meat and vegetables complemented perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of color, aroma, and flavor that was simply mouth-watering.
• However, Athena still had some concerns.
• After all, the person in front of her was Ronan Sterling, who grew up with gourmet delicacies. Athena was curious if he would enjoy her home-cooked meals.
• Athena handed Ronan a bowl of rice. "Give it a try. If you don't like it, just tell me, and we can go out to eat."
• Ronan nodded. He took a small spoon, scooped up a bite of rice, and popped it into his mouth. Then, he chewed eagerly, his cheeks puffing out cutely.
• When the doorbell rang urgently, Athena smiled, ready to sit and enjoy her meal.
• Athena's curiosity sparked as the urgent ring of the doorbell jolted her from her thoughts.
• Visitors rarely graced her doorstep, so Athena wondered who might be calling at this hour.
• Confused, Athena headed to the door, eager to uncover the identity of the unexpected visitor.
• Standing before her was a tall figure leaning against the door.
• His face was strikingly handsome as if sculpted by a divine hand. It had beautiful thin lips pressed into a straight line, features so exquisite that they defied description, cold brows, and eyes as deep as the night sea.
• Clad in a sharp, refined suit that accentuated his tall frame, he exuded a handsome and sophisticated air. His legs were encased in long, elegant trousers, exuding charm and grace.
• This was the first time Athena had ever seen such a remarkable man.
• Athena stood there, star-struck, her mouth hanging open in sheer disbelief momentarily.
• As she finally regained her composure, Athena was about to inquire about the man's identity when a loud 'clang' from behind interrupted her.
• Athena quickly turned to see the young boy arrogantly tossing his spoon on the table. He stomped into the room with his short legs and closed the door behind him.
• Thaddeus and Athena were shocked.
• She was perplexed, wondering what was happening.
• Still caught in a whirlwind of confusion, Athena registered the slow, deliberate words of the man before her. "Hello, I am Thaddeus, Ronnie's father."
• Her mind reeled with shock and disbelief.
• She had anticipated a visit from the Sterlings sooner or later but hadn't expected it to be Thaddeus himself.
• She had heard of this man before.
• He was rumored to be a low-key, aloof titan in the business world, commanding immense power and holding a prestigious position. He struck fear into the hearts of all.
• His brother Theodore, too, was a handsome and renowned figure in the business world.
• In previous times, figures of their stature rarely intersected with Athena.
• Yet, today, he graced her humble abode with his presence.
• Reluctantly, Athena acknowledged, "Here to collect Ronnie, I presume?"
• Thaddeus nodded curtly, his gaze sweeping the interior before requesting, "May I enter?"
• "By all means," Athena acquiesced, gesturing for him to enter her humble abode.
• Thaddeus strode into the apartment, his imposing stature of over 1.8 meters seeming to fill the space. Athena was acutely aware of the confines of her modest dwelling.
• Despite the cramped quarters, Thaddeus remained composed. His discerning eyes took in the surroundings with a quick, practiced sweep.
• Although the apartment was compact, it exuded warmth with its cozy decor. The aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air, adding to the inviting atmosphere.
• Thaddeus couldn't quite articulate the emotions welling inside him as he entered the scene.
• Before arriving, Thaddeus had meticulously acquainted himself with Athena's background.
• He had delved into her history, gaining a rudimentary understanding of her circumstances.
• At that moment, Thaddeus wondered if Athena had an ulterior motive in her interactions with Ronnie.
• Thaddeus suspected Athena might have an agenda in her interactions with Ronnie, considering his son's reluctance toward unfamiliar women and Ronnie's aloof reputation.
• As Thaddeus surveyed the surroundings, Athena stood behind him, oblivious to his thoughts.
• She felt embarrassed when she caught Thaddeus eyeing the food on the table.
• "I've got simple grub and tea, not sure if Ronan's into that," Athena admitted.
• Thaddeus shrugged it off, "He's not a picky eater. He'll manage. Thanks for watching him, Ms. Sinclair."
• Athena waved dismissively, "No worries, Ronnie's usually a good kid. Just not sure what got into him today…"
• "Don't sweat it, Ms. Sinclair. Ronnie's probably just miffed at me. Just give him a shout, and we'll sort it out," Thaddeus reassured.
• Thaddeus reached the bedroom door, knocked, and called, "Ronnie, time to head home. Let's go."
• Ronnie remained silent.
• Anticipating Ronnie's silence, Thaddeus said firmly, "Three days of sulking is enough. It's time to put on your big boy pants. You're not a toddler anymore."
• Athena couldn't help but smile as she heard his words from behind.
• Still, Ronnie didn't respond.
• Thaddeus' brow furrowed, his voice taking a colder edge, "Ronan Sterling, you've got one minute. Come out now, or I'm coming in."
• Finally, a rustle broke the silence in the room, but it seemed there was still no intention of coming out.
• Feeling compelled to intervene, Athena stepped forward and suggested, "Mr. Sterling, perhaps I could give it a try?"