Alexander watched Liam's crestfallen expression, his smirk widening. He began chatting with the children about Amy, listing her virtues like prized treasures.

"Amy doesn't just cook incredible meals—she brews these medicinal soups. Ever heard of them? I have a weak stomach and get cold easily, especially in winter. Amy makes these soups for me daily. She's like a guardian angel. Knows exactly what's good for the body and what's not."

As he spoke, Alexander lifted his thermos, his face glowing with pride.

"This is Amy's special blend. She says I'm still healing, so outside food isn't ideal. Even though the daycare meals are decent, she insists on packing my lunch."

The children listened intently, eyes fixed on the thermos.

"Wow! Amy sounds magical! Is she, like, a witch or something?"

"I hate the food here. When I ask my mom to pack me something, she says I'm being difficult..."

One child wrinkled his nose. "I've had herbal soup before. Tasted like dirt. Made me wanna throw up."

Alexander grinned. "That's because you haven't tried Amy's version. Hers is delicious."

With a flourish, he popped open the thermos lid. A rich, savory aroma filled the air. "Whoa! That smells incredible!"

Several kids swallowed hard, stomachs growling—especially those who'd skipped breakfast.

All attention was on the thermos now. The vibrant colors, the mouthwatering scent—it was a sensory feast.

Alexander, never one to hoard, grabbed small cups and a spoon, offering samples.

"Go on, try it."

One by one, the kids took sips.

"Oh my god! This is amazing!"

"Something this tasty is actually healthy? I want this every day!"

"Alexander, can I have another cup? Please?"

"Hey! That was mine! Give it back!"

"No way! Finders keepers!"

Two children nearly tussled over the last drop.

Liam stood frozen, fists clenched. Once, his mother had done the same for him. But he'd found it irritating, dismissing her as just a boring housewife.

He'd even been ashamed to admit Amy was his mother. So why were these kids looking at Alexander with envy?

Lost in thought, Liam didn’t notice Alexander sidling up beside him until he whispered, "This time, I won. That Victoria Langley you and your dad adore? Overrated."

Liam snapped back to reality, glaring.

Alexander continued, "Amy’s prettier, more talented, and she protects me. Victoria just cries and needs rescuing. Pathetic, really. You actually like someone like that? Hilarious."

Each word stoked Liam’s fury.

Pointing at Alexander, he shouted, "Victoria isn’t like that! Shut your mouth!"