When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 31

Brody blinked, coming back to himself as he finally noticed the blood on his finger.

“Is there any point to what you’re doing right now?” Nelly sounded tired, almost annoyed. She grabbed the steak and tossed it straight into the trash without another word.

Watching her walk away, Brody felt this sudden emptiness settle in his chest. It was strange and uncomfortable, something he didn’t recognize.

Nelly rummaged through the cabinet and found the first-aid kit. When she came back, Brody was already sitting on the sofa, back straight, looking so stiff and formal that for a second, she almost felt like she was giving a presentation at work.

She didn’t say anything as she pulled out some antiseptic and bandages. Brody just held out his hand, like he expected her to take care of it. He was so used to being looked after that it came naturally.

“Do it yourself.” Nelly tossed the supplies to him.

He glanced at her, didn’t argue, and quietly cleaned his own wound, wrapping the bandage tight. His face stayed blank, as if he didn’t feel anything at all.

“I’ll have Alan order some food. What do you want to eat?”

“No, thanks.” Nelly didn’t even hesitate. “I don’t like takeout.”

“Then I’ll have Marian come cook,” Brody suggested after a pause.

“Marian only ever makes what you and Carrie like. She doesn’t know how to cook anything I want.” Nelly’s voice was cool and firm.

Brody couldn’t tell if she was just angry or actually meant it. When his expression darkened, Nelly braced herself, half expecting him to snap. But instead, he surprised her.

“So what do you like to eat? I’ll get someone who knows how to make it.”

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