Marcus didn't really understand what Edward was saying. His thoughts were all over the place.Does this guy actually know how to cook? Or did he somehow get good after just a few tries? This is really confusing…
Edward could tell Marcus was puzzled, but he couldn't exactly say, "Oh, my godly system just inserted a cooking skill directly into my brain."The skill hadn't just taught him how to cook perfectly—it had also filled his mind with knowledge about spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques, as if he'd known them all his life.
Well, no point thinking too hard about things I don't understand. Let's just go with the flow, Edward thought.
"Hey Marcus, come on, let's eat. The food's getting cold," he said.
Marcus snapped out of his thoughts. "Yeah, I'm actually starving after my workout today. Thanks, bro."
After a few bites, Marcus froze in disbelief. The food was incredible. The eggs were so fluffy, seasoned perfectly—every flavor balanced just right."Whoa, Ed, this is amazing! I didn't know food could taste this good!"
"Haha, eat up." Edward chuckled. He was just as surprised by the taste himself, but he couldn't exactly praise his own cooking out loud.Even if the system disappeared today, just this skill could make me a living, he thought.
Marcus devoured every last bite, still not feeling full even after eating more than usual. "Man, that was heavenly. Anyway, Ed, I'll clean up the dishes."
Still savoring his breakfast, Edward nodded. "Yeah, okay."
After cleaning up, Marcus left, not wanting to disturb Edward any further. He knew his friend's nature by now.
Once he finished eating, Edward sat on his bed, thinking about what to do next—when his phone suddenly rang.He checked the caller ID, and his expression softened slightly.
Why is Mom calling now?
Even though he had all of his memories from childhood, they weren't enough to completely calm his nerves. Taking a deep breath, he answered.
"Son, are you busy?" came his mother's gentle voice.
As soon as he heard her, all his nervousness melted away. He cleared his throat before replying, "No, Mom, I just had breakfast. Did something happen?"
"You already ate? Don't you have your part-time job at the university library?"
Edward froze. He had completely forgotten about his job at the university library—a position he'd gotten thanks to his perfect attendance and spotless record.
"Oh, that… I quit, Mom. You know I'm getting my results next month, and I've been working on a project for a few months now. I want to focus on that."
Even though his mother didn't quite understand why he suddenly quit his job—especially given their tight financial situation—she didn't question him. She knew her son wouldn't make such a decision lightly.
"Well, do what makes you happy, son. If money gets tight, I can take on a few more hours at work, and I'm sure your father will help too."
Edward's grip on his phone tightened slightly as he listened to his mother's words.She was always like that — soft, patient, and endlessly understanding. It made him feel both warm and guilty at the same time.
"Thanks, Mom," he said quietly. "But really, it's fine. I've got it under control. The project's important… I think it might change things for me."
There was a pause on the other end. He could almost picture her frowning slightly, a towel probably draped over one shoulder as she stood in the kitchen.