A Journey from Bitterness to Truth (Matilda and Yvan) novel Chapter 514

Yvan muttered a brief acknowledgment, not bothering to add anything else as he strode inside. Noel watched his son's retreating figure with a heavy sigh.

Maybe it was just his imagination, but Noel couldn't shake off the feeling that Yvan had changed. Gone was the enthusiastic boy he once knew, replaced by someone who seemed indifferent to everything around him, as if living in a bubble, untouched by the chaos of the world. Only when Matilda's name came up did a spark of life seem to ignite in Yvan, like a dormant volcano suddenly erupting. Those were the rare moments Noel felt his son was truly alive.

Upon entering the house, Yvan was inevitably subjected to a tirade from Opal, who had been fuming over his actions lately. Noel got a piece of her mind too, as she waved her chopsticks in the air, scolding them during dinner. Yvan's frown deepened visibly, a clear sign of his irritation, while Rachel tried to play peacemaker on the side.

"Yvan, don't be upset. Grandma is just set in her ways, seeing the world in black and white. She means well, you know. Don't stoop to her level," Rachel said, her words smooth as butter, making Yvan scoff, sending shivers down her spine. Midway through the meal, Yvan dropped his chopsticks with a clatter, right after Opal finished her rant.

Setting down his cutlery, Yvan's action made Opal furrow her brows, her voice sharpening, "What, you don't like being told off? Or is it because I criticized that girl, and it upset you?"

"I'm not upset," Yvan said, tidying up his plate and standing, "Grandma, if you prefer not to have me at your table, just say it. I can eat elsewhere."

Opal was momentarily speechless, her usual retorts blocked by Yvan's excuse.

Grabbing his coat, Yvan headed for the door, leaving the rest of the family with mixed expressions, torn between wanting to ask him to stay and fearing Opal's disapproval.