149.

The dining room fell into a hushed tranquility, as the family members, refraining from initiating conversation, immersed themselves in the delicious food before them. Each bite was savored, the unspoken tensions and secrets lingering beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to unravel.

After enjoying the satisfying lunch, Asher expressed his gratitude to his mother, his lips gently brushing against her cheek in a tender kiss. "Thanks, Mom, the dinner was awesome," he praised, his appreciation evident in his voice.

Damon chimed in, his agreement resonating in the room. "Totally agree, I loved it too," he added, a rare moment of camaraderie shared between the two brothers. Their mother's face lit up with happiness, observing her sons together, engaging in casual conversation. Unbeknownst to her, this harmonious interaction concealed a carefully crafted facade, masking the underlying tension that plagued their household.

Lost in his virtual world, Asher was engrossed in his phon