Alex was cognizant of Alex's grandfather perception that, despite her apparent indifference, her heart must be aching within. Though she deemed his concerns superfluous, she accepted his kindness gracefully.
Indeed, the past few days had left her thoroughly exhausted, and the prospect of a well-deserved respite appealed to her greatly.
Accompanied by Alex's mother to a spa, they returned home as dusk descended. After a family dinner, Alex retreated to her chamber, yet found herself tossing and turning, unable to quell the restlessness within. Her meager supper had left her stomach growling, prompting her to descend to the kitchen in search of sustenance.
As she descended the stairs, her path crossed that of Alex's father, who held a cup of milk infused with honey in his hands.
The sight of that cup suddenly sparked a realization within Alex.
Alex's mother often struggled with slumber, and as a gesture of his love and care, Alex's father would prepare her a cup of milk infused with honey each night. Little did he know, however, that this very cup, meant to soothe her, might very well be the culprit behind her restless nights.
Alex berated herself for her lack of attention towards Alex's mother wellbeing, for the truth of the matter had barely registered in her mind. It was only now, witnessing Alex's Father with the honeyed milk, that the pieces began to fall into place.
Yet, this was mere speculation. She needed to test her theory.
Surprised by Alex's sudden appearance, Alex's Father quickly regained his composure and inquired gently, "Alex, why are you still awake?"
"Dad, I can't sleep," Alex replied, rubbing her eyes before her gaze fell upon the cup in his hand. "You're so thoughtful, always making sure Mom sleeps well with this milk and honey. Why don't you let me have it instead?"
Without waiting for a response, she reached for the cup, only to be thwarted by Alex's father nimble reflexes. Displeased, she pouted, "Dad, you're being too stingy. Can't you spare a cup of milk and honey for your daughter?"
"Alex, be reasonable. This is for your mother. If you want some, I'll make you a fresh cup after I deliver this one," Alex's father said indulgently, a hint of panic fleeting across his features if one were to observe closely.
"Alright, Dad. Hurry up and take it to Mom, then make me one too," Alex conceded, only to snatch the cup from his hand as he nodded in agreement, downing its contents in one gulp before he could react.
"Alex!" Father exclaimed, regaining his senses as he held the empty cup. "I told you, that was for your mother. Why did you have to drink it?"
Seeing his indignation, Alex confirmed her suspicions. Playing the innocent, she asked, "Dad, it's just a cup of milk and honey. Why are you so angry?"
"It's not about being angry, Alex. Just don't drink what I tell you not to, okay?" Father sighed helplessly. "You've been spoiled by your mother, and now you don't even listen to me."
"Dad, why can't I drink it? Is it poisoned?" Alex countered, feigning ignorance. "Besides, you've always given me whatever I wanted. Why are you being so miserly with a cup of milk and honey now?"
Unable to argue with Alex's seemingly innocent inquiries, Father felt a pang of guilt, his voice lacking conviction as he replied, "Alex, I'm sorry. I've just been on edge lately, with everything going on between you and Ethan."
Understanding his predicament, Alex chose not to press further. Though Father had acted wrongly in orchestrating the switch between her and Tian Tian, his affection for her was undeniable. She didn't want him to suffer the same fate as in her previous life.
"Dad, I'm sorry for causing you so much worry. Go back to your room. I'll make a cup of milk and honey for Mom, as an apology to you, okay?"
Alex's father nodded, relieved by her understanding.
Preparing the drink and delivering it to Alex's mother, she found her immediately inquiring, "Alex, your father told me you're having trouble sleeping. Are you upset about Ethan?"
"Mom, no. I'm just not tired," Alex replied, handing her the cup and glancing at Alex's father. "Dad, Mom, I've always been a burden to you both. From now on, let me take care of making Mom's milk and honey. Let me show you my filial piety."
Father expression darkened momentarily, but they couldn't refuse her words, and thus agreed.
With their consent secured, Alex breathed a sigh of relief and exited Mother's room after she finished her drink.
Retiring to her chamber, she collapsed onto the bed, gazing up at the exquisite crystal chandelier dangling from the ceiling.
She resolved to keep a close eye on father, ensuring he abstained from tampering with Mother's food, and finding the right moment to dissuade him from his vengeful plans against Tian's mother.
Before long, a wave of drowsiness overwhelmed her, and Alex attributed it to the effects of the milk and honey. Without further thought, she closed her eyes and drifted into slumber.
The following days found Alex alternating between spending time with Mother, exercising, and immersing herself in modern skills and knowledge.
Having reflected on her past life, Alex realized that Andra Ningyu had frequently leveraged modern expertise and talents. To stay competitive, she must diligently acquire these abilities as well.
One dawn, Alex arose early, spending half an hour in the gym before returning to her chamber for a shower and descending the stairs.
Mother's friend Aunt Jiang, who had been residing abroad, had returned with her family, and Mother, after breakfast, had gone to visit them, intending to spend the night. Seizing this opportunity, Alex headed to the Tae Kwon Do dojo.
Upon entering the private room, Alex's surprise turned to dismay when she discovered that her instructor was none other than Ethan. Moreover, she had booked the entire room for personalized instruction.
"Alex, what more do you have to say? Don't tell me this is just a coincidence," Ethan said, his eyes brimming with disdain as he recovered from his initial shock.
He knew this woman wouldn't let go easily.
Despite the urge to claim it as a mere coincidence, Alex remained silent, for the truth was too unbelievable even to her.