Chapter 480
Chapter 480:
Stephen nodded, choosing not to delve deeper.
“Ms. Edwards, this is a premium coffee blend, ideally brewed at the perfect temperature,” Aaron explained, his smile a marked change from his previously stern expression.
“Thank you,” Janice responded. “You can return to your duties. I’ll manage from here.”
“Enjoy,” Aaron replied with a respectful bow before stepping back discreetly.
Janice took her time, skillfully preparing the coffee.
Before long, the refreshing scent of coffee filled the air, capturing even Stephen’s attention, who typically did not care for coffee.
“This coffee is truly outstanding.”
Janice smiled, placing a cup before Stephen. “Give it a try.”
Stephen lifted the cup, the inviting aroma surrounding him. The coffee’s deep, velvety hue promised a rich taste without any bitterness. Even before his first sip, he was impressed.
The coffee’s smooth, rich flavor washed over him as he drank, a comforting warmth spreading through his body.
“It’s delicious,” he admitted.
“If you like it, I can get you more,” Janice suggested.
“This is your coffee?” Stephen asked, taken aback. He had thought the coffee was provided by the show, not realizing it was supplied by Janice herself.
“I enjoy several hobbies—listening to music, savoring coffee, and occasionally wine tasting. They keep life interesting.”
Stephen’s eyes lit up, filled with admiration for Janice’s free-spirited approach to life, a lifestyle he longed to embrace. However, reflecting on his own life brought a hint of bitterness to his expression.
“Do you have something on your mind?” Janice inquired, her eyebrow arching curiously.
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“To be honest, I envy your lifestyle. Unfortunately, I’m tied down by too many responsibilities, so such dreams remain just that—dreams.”
“But you’re an award-winning actor, successful and renowned. Why can’t you live as you wish?” Janice probed.
Stephen paused, lifted the coffee cup, and downed it in one go. The warmth did little to soothe his inner unrest, leaving a bitter taste lingering.
“Being an award-winning actor might seem glamorous, but it’s not what I truly desire.” He sighed, the bitterness clear in his tone. “People see my achievements and think I’ve found fame and fortune, but in reality, I’m just a pawn in someone else’s scheme.”
Realizing he might have shared too much, Stephen offered an awkward smile. “Please forgive my outburst. Consider it a mere jest, and don’t take it to heart.”
“Yet I am concerned,” Janice said, her frown deepening as she fixed her gaze on Stephen.
The moment Stephen’s eyes met Janice’s piercing gaze, his heart faltered, a flutter of uncertainty passing through him. Something about Janice’s penetrating stare made him feel like a child caught in mischief, though he couldn’t quite explain why.
Her eyes held a haunting familiarity, transporting him back to his mother’s warm, understanding gaze. They mirrored the same look his mother would give him whenever he stumbled in his youth—a perfect blend of concern and unconditional love.
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