Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 1456

After an afternoon filled with conversation, Hobart and Ursula's relationship began to blossom. Not only were they seated together, but Hobart also attended to Ursula with great care, eagerly serving her food.

Throughout the meal, the only thing that echoed at the table was Ursula repeatedly saying, "Thank you, I can handle it myself."

Cheryl occasionally tried to serve Adrian some food, but he remained unresponsive, sitting rigidly as he fixed his gaze on Ursula and Hobart.

Finally, Ursula spotted an opportunity to grab some of her favorite vegetables. Out of spite, Adrian mirrored her actions and quickly snatched the same piece she was reaching for.

After a few rounds of this, it became evident to everyone at the table that tension was brewing between them.

Ursula looked at Adrian, her expression calm as they held each other's gaze. Eventually, she chose to set her utensils down first.

Adrian raised an eyebrow triumphantly, clearly pleased with himself.

Unable to stay silent, Hobart put down his utensils and defended Ursula. "Is this how your family welcomes its guests? Mr. Adrian, don't you think it's inappropriate to treat a young woman this way?"

Adrian's expression darkened instantly. "Am I really supposed to let an outsider dictate how I behave in my own home?"

"Respecting women is a fundamental quality of a gentleman," Hobart replied, his tone becoming serious.

The atmosphere at the table thickened with tension.

Helen and Chandler exchanged a knowing look. The next moment, Helen stepped in to ease the tension. "Mr. Combes, I think there's been a misunderstanding. Adrian has a playful nature; what he meant was that Ms. Gabin has a modest appetite.

"He was simply concerned about her filling up too quickly. We certainly wouldn't want her to miss out on the next two signature dishes."

With that, Helen set down her utensils and stood up. "I'll bring out the next dishes."

"Oh, I see! My apologies for the misunderstanding," Hobart said, clasping his hands together in an apologetic gesture.

Just as Adrian was about to respond, Chandler quickly held him back from under the table, effectively diffusing the tension.

"Thank you for intervening earlier. I really appreciate it," he said, his voice warm with gratitude.

"Not at all," Helen replied with a bright smile. "But make sure to be a little more courteous to the ladies next time!"

Adrian gave her a faint smile but didn't say a word. He nodded at her before walking out.

Helen entered the room and teased Chandler, "Have you noticed how smitten Adrian seems with Ursula? Aren't you going to step in and help him out as his older brother?"

"Trying to win a woman over with help from others isn't a good idea. Even if he succeeds, it won't lead to a lasting relationship," Chandler said with a shrug, conveying his helplessness.

"Wow, you're definitely a cold-hearted brother," Helen teased playfully.

"True, Jenson has already distanced himself from me, so why would Adrian be any different? Right now, all they care about is you. As for me, I'm just yesterday's news."