Chapter 12

Leonard stood in the center of the kitchen, and the cold marble countertop reflected the somber expression on his face. Susan stood quietly to the side, not daring to even breathe too loudly. "So, all these years, she silently did all this and never said a word?" he asked in a hoarse voice. Susan nodded cautiously. "She never let us intervene. She said that you had a sensitive stomach, so store-bought soups were too harsh for you. She said that she had to watch the heat herself." Leonard's fingers tapped the countertop unconsciously. For six years, every time he came home from a social gathering, no matter how late it was, there was always a warm bowl of soup waiting on the table. He had never once considered that it had been Jennifer's effort, staying up into the night to prepare it for him. Neil said, "Mr. Faron, should I try to…" "No need." Leonard turned and walked toward the stairs. "Everyone, go rest." As he passed by the master bedroom, he heard Samantha's even breathi