Chapter 386

Luna Whitaker's lips had just curved into a smile when Ethan Jackson came rushing over in his usual energetic manner.

Their family now owned two thriving hot pot restaurants, with the third and fourth locations in active preparation. Following the business principles Luna White had taught them, their profits soared effortlessly past ten thousand daily, doubling during holidays.

Ethan had become the backbone of their enterprise.

He specialized in developing and preparing the hot pot broth—the soul of their business, as Luna often said. Ethan possessed a natural talent for it, not only mastering Luna's original recipes but also innovating new flavors.

A secret R&D room, strictly off-limits to outsiders, housed his creations. Ethan personally blended every batch to protect their trade secrets. His tomato broth, mushroom tonic pot, and green pepper oil variations expanded their menu, delighting customers with more choices beyond the traditional split-pot.

"Mom, Aaron and I are heading out for supplies," Ethan announced. Every ten days, he made the trip himself—never delegating the task, as ingredient quality directly affected their signature flavors.

Luna nodded. For convenience, Ethan had bought a motorcycle. If not for his age, she would've encouraged him to get a license. She'd come to realize that earning money was meant to improve their lives.

Her eldest son's diligence and capability filled her with pride.

"Be careful on the road—no speeding. It's warm out, but safety first." Luna couldn't help fussing whenever he left.

Ethan grinned. "Don't worry, Mom! Dad, we're off!"

Ryan Wallace handed him a helmet, his eyes warm with paternal affection. His three stepsons shared both a father-son bond and a brotherly camaraderie with him.

"Let your brother drive. Aaron's too reckless—last time I rode with him, he nearly gave me a heart attack." Ryan knew both boys' temperaments well.

Aaron pouted. "Dad, that was when I'd just learned! I'm way smoother now!"

"Oh? Then who knocked over a bicycle yesterday and paid a hundred in damages?" Ryan countered bluntly. "The money's nothing—I just don't want you hurt. What if you hit a car next time?"

Aaron deflated. He had no rebuttal—the incident was undeniably his fault.