mother in law shenanigans

"Let me help you with that," Aiden politely offered as he watched Maya pack the smoky tomato, chipotle, and charred corn soup she had made for lunch into the insulated food delivery bag.

"I'm good," Maya replied, declining his offer as she filled the stainless steel thermos with the corn soup.

"My sweet sons," Beatrice's coaxing voice could be heard outside the kitchen. "Where are you, my babies?" she sang. "Mummy is looking for you."

"Oh Lord," Aiden hissed, irritated. "I can't take it anymore. Oliver, when do you think her heart condition will finally get her killed?"

Oliver nearly spat out the food in his mouth.

"Whoa, Aiden, dial down your psychopathic tendencies. That woman is annoying, but she is our mom," River chastised Aiden. The brothers were at the kitchen island, eating the same dish that Maya had made as Dalton's lunch.

Aiden snorted. "She is as good as dead. That woman doesn't deserve the title of 'mother.'"