However, just as Maurice was about to say the word, he paused before shaking his head.

Edward raised both brows in confusion, not expecting this to happen. Immediately after, his brows furrowed tightly, and he wanted to ask why. That was when Edward caught sight of a hinting look from Darius.

He immediately fell silent but secretly panicked, unable to hide the growing anxiety in his eyes as he stared at the blond boy.

Maurice’s gaze was downcast, his fingers twiddling while tears brimmed in his eyes. He willed himself to hold his breath. Not wanting anyone to see him break down, he kept his head down.

Still, he replied loudly, “That’s a huge decision. Before I decide, I have to ask my adoptive mother’s opinion.”

He then raised his head and no longer concealed his emotions, earnestly saying, “It doesn’t matter how she treated me before. Without her, I might not have survived until now. Plus, she’s given me plenty of financial aid throughout my life. I never expected her to treat me l