BXBX NOVEL Chapter 49 - 49: Putting on a Facade
The entire ride was in silence.
At this moment, Audrey couldn’t simply let Evans leave without acknowledging him, out of basic courtesy.
Even if it was merely an act, she felt compelled to put on a facade. Audrey smiled and suggested, “Mr. Hill, why don’t you come in and have a seat?”
[Please don’t stay.]
Evans found himself torn between amusement and exasperation.
He’d never encountered someone quite adept at putting on a facade.
Evans understood the delicate balance between being attentive and respecting personal boundaries.
If he overstayed his welcome, Audrey would likely become even more evasive in the future.
He politely declined, shaking his head. “There’s no need. I still have a few matters to attend to.”
Audrey heaved a sigh of relief. [Sigh, I appreciate people who know when to take a hint.]
Evans raised his eyebrows.
Audrey pretended to regretfully say, “Alright then, I won’t keep you, Mr. Hill. Please take care on your way.”
With that, she expected Evans to get back into his car and depart. However, he didn’t move.
Puzzled by his lingering presence, Audrey watched as Evans suddenly pulled out his phone and tapped a few times before turning the screen toward her.
“Add my contact number. If you encounter any issues with your wrist, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can take you to the hospital.”
Audrey was dumbfounded.
[What could possibly go wrong with my wrist? It’ll likely be fine by tomorrow.]
[If I didn’t know his character, I’d think he’s deliberately trying to get my contact information.]
With his phone already out, Audrey found herself unable to refuse.
She reluctantly added Evans as a contact, offering him a stiff smile as he left in his car.
Upon returning home, she found the house empty. Even Anthea had gone to class and hadn’t yet returned.
The housekeeper noticed Audrey’s arrival and kindly brought her some freshly baked biscuits to ease her hunger.
Inside the house, only the housekeeper was present. Audrey found herself somewhat bored, so she took the small plate of biscuits and settled down just outside the kitchen to enjoy her snack.
As she nibbled on the biscuits, Audrey struck up a conversation with the housekeeper.
Back when Audrey hadn’t transmigrated, the Host rarely interacted with the household staff. She believed that such interactions might tarnish her image as a wealthy young lady.
However, Audrey didn’t share these reservations. She greeted everyone in the household with a warm smile and engaged in occasional conversation.
As a result, her family members noticed the change in her demeanor. Yet, they simply assumed that she had undergone some personal growth and didn’t think much of it.
“This biscuit recipe is new. What do you think of it? Is it too sweet?” the housekeeper inquired, her smile friendly.
Audrey had already devoured half of the biscuits but responded with appreciation, “It’s absolutely delicious, and the sweetness is just perfect. Your culinary skills could rival those of a five-star chef.”
The housekeeper blushed modestly in response to the praise. She replied with a warm smile, “If you like it, I can prepare more for you tomorrow.”
Audrey expressed her regret, saying, “I’m afraid that won’t be possible. I have a night scene scheduled for tomorrow, so I won’t be returning home.”
The housekeeper sighed. “Your job is quite demanding too. I’ve heard that you often work long hours under the sun.”
Audrey smiled and replied, “No, we’re fine. We have a dedicated team to help us with everything. The behind-the-scenes staff work tirelessly.”
Just as Audrey was engaged in this conversation, Abner returned home. He entered the house, hearing Audrey’s voice before he saw her.
Abner changed into more comfortable shoes and drew closer, realizing that Audrey was sitting by the kitchen door, leisurely enjoying her biscuits.
Upon sensing Abner’s movements, Audrey looked up.
A trace of astonishment appeared on her face. “Big Brother, you’re back already?”
[The busiest brother in the house is the first one back?]
Audrey was really shocked.
Recalling the call he received just before reaching home, Abner couldn’t help but develop a headache.
Even though Gary seemed to believe Caroline’s account this time, Abner had no faith in her version of events. He was convinced that Jerry wasn’t telling the truth, and Audrey certainly wasn’t that type of person.
Today, Gary abruptly assumed a heavy workload and encouraged Abner to return home early to rest, perhaps recalling Abner’s recent surgery and ongoing recovery.
When Abner heard Gary’s suggestion for him to leave and rest at home, he was taken aback.
After all, Gary had initially considered his appendectomy a minor procedure, hardly necessitating such concern.
However, Caroline had bypassed Abner to speak directly with Gary, filling him in on the Jerry and Linda situation.
Glancing at Audrey, who appeared to be in high spirits, Abner decided not to dampen her mood by immediately discussing Jerry.
Instead, he gently inquired, “Did you have a tough day on set today?”
Audrey shook her head. “We only filmed for half a day, so it wasn’t too taxing.”
With those words, she rose from her seat, picked up a treat from the plate, and extended it to Abner. “Auntie just learned to bake these, and they’re delicious.
Big Brother, give them a try.”
Abner, noticing the enthusiasm in her eyes, opened his mouth and took a bite..