Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 130

The next moment, Shirley walked in with a grocery basket, her eyes narrowing as she noticed a man in the house. Her expression shifted instantly, and she hurried over to Serena, her tone guarded, "Who are you?"

Seeing Shirley acting like a protective mother hen, Serena quickly explained, "Shirley, this is a friend of Joy's."

Upon learning that he was someone her daughter had brought home, Shirley's expression softened slightly, though she still furrowed her brow in disapproval. However, she managed to hold her tongue.

"Since you're already here, have a seat. I'll make you both something to eat," Shirley said before heading into the kitchen.

For the past few days, Serena had been helping Shirley with the cooking. Seeing Shirley enter the kitchen, she followed her in as well.

In the living room, only Joy and Rock were left.

Noticing Rock's gaze drifting toward the kitchen, Joy moved to block his line of sight, clearly displeased. "Do you like Serena?" she asked bluntly.

Rock was so taken aback by Joy's directness that he coughed several times, his ears turning a noticeable shade of red.

Joy pressed her lips tightly together, "What do you like about Serena?"

Rock patted his chest, recovering from the surprise, "Don't be ridiculous."

"So, you don't like Serena then?" Hope flickered in Joy's eyes once more.

The redness faded from Rock's ears as he put on a serious face, "I do like Serena, but not in a romantic way."

Joy's expression relaxed a bit, "I'll get you a glass of water."

In the kitchen, Shirley was washing vegetables, her voice lowered as she spoke, "Joy really shouldn't be bringing outsiders home at a time like this..."

Serena chuckled, "It's alright, Shirley. I know him, and he won't betray me."

"Really?"

Serena nodded slightly, though her heart skipped a beat. She glanced out the window.