Chapter 417: Eleanor Brooks Frowned at the Sign

"Goodness, why is this shop called 'The Brooks Family'?" Eleanor Brooks frowned at the sign, her irritation rising. How could her son's business not carry their family name?

Nolan Brooks immediately recognized his mother's displeasure.

"Mom, there's a reason for the name," he said, pouring her a cup of tea. "The secret recipe came from Elena, and she provided the startup funds too. Truthfully, this shop belongs to my sister-in-law. We're just managing it for her."

Eleanor's teacup paused mid-air.

"Profits are split fifty-fifty, with Elena taking the larger share," Nolan explained earnestly. "So what should we call it?"

Heat rose to the older woman's cheeks.

She'd assumed her daughter-in-law was taking advantage of her son, never realizing it was their family benefiting from Elena's generosity.

"Elena..." Eleanor grasped her daughter-in-law's hand. "This old woman was being foolish. Your sister has been so kind to you both—you did the right thing."

Elena's eyes grew moist.

"I came specifically to help with your postpartum care," Eleanor said, patting her hand. "With no family of your own here, what kind of mother-in-law would I be if I didn't step up?"

Nolan interjected, "Mom, I really want a daughter. Our second and third were both boys—how boring is that?"

"Pah!" Eleanor laughed. "If you could have daughters by yourself, what would you need a wife for?" Turning back to Elena, she added, "A granddaughter would be wonderful. This grandma would adore a little girl."

Elena burst into laughter, the weight lifting from her heart.

Sunlight streamed through the window, bathing all three faces in its warm glow.