Chapter 601

Walter Ackerley asked, “Leslie, we’re fine. What about you? You tired? Got enough sleep? Bet you’re starving. Eat up, fill your belly, then go get some more rest.” Matilda Ackerley chimed in, “Don’t eat too fast if you’re really hungry, sweetie. You might end up stuffing yourself and feel awful.” As she spoke, Matilda gently ladled a bowl of soup for Leslie, watching her with a careful, tender gaze, like she was scared Leslie would turn her down. Of course, Leslie wouldn’t do that. She gave a sweet smile and said, “Thank you, Grandma.” She picked up the spoon and slowly started drinking the soup. Seeing her eat, Matilda finally relaxed a bit. Everyone ate in silence. No one asked Leslie where she had been all this time. She’d been gone for so long. If something terrible had happened, dragging her to talk about it now would only hurt her more. But things were different for Broderick. They were husband and wife. If anyone needed to talk to her, it should be him. After the meal, Matilda a