Her Perfect Betrayal

Chapter 5

Mrs. Carter felt a quiet sense of relief after hearing Raphael speak with such certainty.

At least this time, he seemed to have finally awakened. But after a moment, she instinctively glanced toward the apartment door. She lowered her voice and spoke cautiously.

"Young Master... perhaps you should speak a little more quietly."

Raphael raised an eyebrow.

"The neighbors are still outside," she added. "They're probably waiting to see how this ends."

Raphael glanced toward the door. He could already imagine the scene. The gossip-loving neighbors were probably gathered in the hallway, pretending not to listen while eagerly waiting for the next argument.

In his previous life, Raphael would have been embarrassed. Not anymore.

"Let them hear." His voice remained completely indifferent. "If they enjoy gossiping, then let them gossip."

Mrs. Carter hesitated and Raphael almost smiled.

As someone who had been reborn with memories of his previous life intact, he knew exactly what was happening at this very moment.

The neighborhood housekeepers' group chat was probably already buzzing. Someone had undoubtedly sent a message saying that Raphael and Dorothy were fighting again.

Others were probably making bets. How long before Raphael apologized? Ten minutes? Thirty minutes? Perhaps before midnight?

Someone might even be confidently declaring that Raphael would eventually chase after Dorothy and beg her to come home.

The thought amused him.

"They're probably already placing bets," Raphael said casually. "They're wondering how long it will take before I give in and apologize."

Mrs. Carter looked embarrassed.

Raphael shrugged. "They're going to lose."

For the first time in his life, he wasn't worried about what other people thought, about Dorothy's reaction, or about the neighbors' opinions.

Raphael leaned back against the sofa with a faint smile appearing on his face.

"I've got much more important things to look forward to."

His eyes gleamed with anticipation. The apocalypse was still six months away. This time, he would build an empire that no one could take away from him.

He was in an unusually good mood. "Mrs. Carter."

"Yes, Young Master?"

"Forget about Dorothy for now. Just prepare dinner."

Mrs. Carter nodded. "Of course."

She returned to the kitchen. Not long afterward, she came back carrying a steaming plate of peanut butter spaghetti.

The moment she placed it before Raphael, a rich, savory aroma filled the room. Raphael's stomach immediately growled.

His eyes fell on the plate. For a moment, he simply stared. Then he picked up his fork. He hadn't realized how hungry he was until now.

The first bite entered his mouth and his eyes widened slightly.

The flavor was rich and comforting, with the creamy peanut butter blending perfectly with the savory sauce and noodles.

Raphael quickly took another bite. Soon, he was eating with genuine enthusiasm.

He simply enjoyed the meal.

"Mrs. Carter," he called.

The housekeeper hurried out of the kitchen.

"This is excellent."

He took another bite. "I don't think I've ever appreciated a meal this much."

The elderly housekeeper's eyes softened. She had spent years watching Raphael eat in silence while worrying about Dorothy.

She had watched him order expensive meals only for Dorothy to complain about the ingredients, but today, he was simply eating and enjoying himself.

A genuine smile appeared on Mrs. Carter's face. "I'm glad you like it. I've not seen you eat in peace like this in a long time."