Sweet Devil [BL]

Chapter 48. Soap Opera

Gabriel innocently tilted his head, casting a curious stare at the three people who had entered his room. They hadn't knocked to announce themselves, opening the door and walking in as if they owned the place.

In the middle of the group stood a middle-aged woman. Her long, curly brown hair was tied in a loose bun, revealing a beautiful face enhanced by delicate makeup. Her clothes, which were neither classy nor casual, were impeccable, without a single wrinkle. She wore a gentle smile that warmed the heart, but the greed glinting in her eyes betrayed her inner thoughts.

Standing on her right side was a tall teenage boy whose emerald eyes were similar to Gabriel's. The perpetual grin on his face gave him a haughty look, making people want to slap him on both cheeks. His clothes were from famous brands that cost an arm and a leg, and he proudly exhibited them like a peacock, whereas his hairstyle followed the fashion trends.

The third person was a young boy under five years of age. He had big, expressive eyes and a small, round face. He wasn't as frail-looking as Misha but nonetheless looked like a little angel. His tiny hand loosely held his mother's as he took in his surroundings, his chocolate brown eyes darting everywhere.

They formed an odd yet balanced trio.

After entering the room, the eldest son and Gabriel's stepmother blatantly ignored the nurse. It was as if she was part of the background, not even worth a glance.

'Honestly, Jake,' Gabriel silently ridiculed, 'if you were to pay more attention, maybe you'd realize it's that hateful nurse who slapped you. What a shame you're not even bothering to read her nameplate.'

But perhaps even then, he wouldn't realize. The nurse's appearance had slightly changed over time, and at first glance, Yuki looked like another person altogether—at least to those who weren't familiar with her. The mother and son duo only met her once and didn't remember her well. They certainly wouldn't recognize her without putting in the effort.

Within four years, Yuki had lost a few pounds and grew her hair, which was at first relatively short. She could now pull it up into a high ponytail, revealing her white forehead and slender neck. The Asian features she inherited from her mother had also become more distinctive after losing weight.

But although she was a beautiful woman, Jake, that playboy, didn't so much as peek at her. Instead, he walked alongside his mother to Gabriel's bed. After taking a look at his bruised face, he scoffed, then sat on a chair. Meanwhile, the woman extended her free hand to hold Garbiel's upper arm, asking in a soft, loving voice, "Sweetie, how do you feel?"

Shivers crawled down Gabriel's spine, and goosebumps spread on his skin. He had the urge to slap her dirty hand away but somehow restrained himself.

"Quite well," he forced a smile before pausing. He seemed to hesitate but eventually asked awkwardly, "I'm sorry, but who are you?"

"Your mother, of course!" the woman replied, her face filled with fake sorrow. "And this is your brother, Jake, and your little brother, Tristan. Did you really forget about us?"

"I'm very sorry, but I have no memories of you. And..." Gabriel chewed on his lower lip before adding, "I heard that my mother died four years ago."

"Yes, your biological mother had a tragic accident, and she is now resting in Heaven. Although we are not related by blood, I do care for you as if you were my own son," the woman gently comforted, stroking his arm. "Even if you don't remember us right now, I'm sure the precious memories we share will come back to you bit by bit."

'What a white lie. You must be hoping that it won't happen,' Gabriel inwardly snorted while outwardly, he smiled timidly. "In that case, I will do my best to remember you, mother."