How the Ice King Became my Doting Billionaire Husband

By the time breakfast rolled around, Stuart had yet to ask a single question about her brother's condition. All he seemed to care about was Morwenna's apparent lack of appetite. Adelaide quickly composed herself, feeling a tad embarrassed as she apologized, "Sorry, my hand slipped and I broke the chopsticks."

Norbert frowned, "The Gallagher family should really brush up on their table manners."

Being a stickler for rules, Norbert had only ever relaxed the 'no talking while eating' rule at the table for Morwenna's sake. He couldn't stand the sight of someone breaking chopsticks during a meal. He was aware that Adelaide was green with envy over Stuart's affection for Wenna, but in his eyes, manners were manners.

Of course, if Morwenna had been the one to break the chopsticks, Norbert would've only been concerned if she had hurt her hand. Favoritism? Absolutely. Protective? Without a doubt. Adelaide's face turned pale, her voice quivering, "I'm sorry, it won't happen again."

Rose was genuinely worried Adelaide might faint from the stress and quickly instructed the maid, "Hurry and get another pair of chopsticks, will you?" After all, it was she who had invited Adelaide over. It would be quite the mishap if Morwenna wasn't upset but Adelaide ended up making a scene.

Meanwhile, Morwenna hardly noticed Adelaide's predicament, her mind racing about the million-dollar question. She unconsciously clutched at Stuart's sleeve, seeking comfort. This unintentional show of dependence was pleasing to Stuart.

In a good mood, he continued feeding her, "Princess, open up."

Morwenna obediently ate the spoonful of bird's nest soup.

Stuart then reassured, "Don't worry, he won't die."

Morwenna, still worried, said, "But, it's going to cost so much. I feel responsible... I didn't expect things to turn out this way. I usually know my own strength, it's mostly just bruises. I checked that day, Jethro couldn't have internal injuries."

Stuart patiently comforted her, "Don't fret. I'll have Fletcher take a look. It shouldn't cost us anything. We'll just invite Fletcher for dinner, and it'll be settled."

"Are you sure that'll be enough?"

"Of course, the hospital belongs to the Vaughn family. The surgery might be expensive, but if Fletcher operates, it'll just be a bit of a hassle, no need to spend much." Hearing that it wouldn't cost a fortune eased Morwenna's worries considerably.

The table knew Stuart was fibbing. Surgery wasn't the only expense; medication could cost a fortune too. But nobody dared to call out Stuart's bluff.

As Stuart continued to feed her, the weight on Morwenna's shoulders lifted, improving her appetite significantly. She ate as much as the rest of the girls combined.

Rose and the others were always on diets, counting calories and restraining themselves. Not Morwenna. If she was going to eat, she'd eat her fill. She was always on the move, burning energy and staying spirited.

Norbert found his appetite growing just watching Morwenna eat. To Stuart, caring for Morwenna was akin to pampering a cherished pet. The only thing that irked Stuart was how Morwenna kept leaning towards Norbert, engaging him in endless conversation.

Unable to bear it any longer, Adelaide put down her utensils, "I'm done. You all enjoy."

No one paid Adelaide any mind, leaving her standing awkwardly. Rose broke the awkward silence, "Adelaide, why don't you head to the music room? Clarissa will join you after breakfast."

"Okay." Adelaide left as if fleeing the scene.

It was becoming clear that Stuart was smitten with Morwenna. Adelaide thought it was love, but she refused to admit it. Even with the situation unfolding as it was, seeing Stuart's behavior towards Morwenna didn't make Adelaide consider stepping back. Instead, it only fueled her resolve to take Morwenna's place.