Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 66

I made an excuse and ducked out of the backyard.

Meanwhile, in the spacious kitchen, Cecilia was in a tizzy, scrambling to get the ingredients ready.

When she saw me, it was like I was her knight in shining armor. “Xaviera, what am I gonna do? My cooking skills are so–so at best.”

took a look at the chaotic countertop, “so–so” was an understatement – it was a hot mess..

I tied on an apron and said, “Better let me handle it.”

I was no master chef, but whipping up a few of Hilary’s favorite home–cooked dishes was a piece of cake for me.

Plus, I’d spent a good two years cooking for Hogan – I knew exactly when the meal was done, and whether to hold back on the spring onions or skip the ginger. I had their preferences down

to a T.

In less than half an hour, I had five dishes and a soup ready to go. The carp soup was one of Hogan’s favorite stomach–friendly brews from the ingredients we had on hand, simmering

away.

Hilary’s stiff expression finally softened a bit as she looked at the spread on the table.

She didn’t even realize it was my handiwork.

For a moment, I didn’t know whether to feel relieved or sad.

was in charge of her meals, every single day for over

Cecilia said enthusiastically, passing Hilary the utensils, “see if it’s

Hogan’s still on

too?” Cecilia’s eyes were brimming with anticipation.

of the devil,

of us, he didn’t seem surprised; he must’ve caught

a beaming smile, “Hogan, I cooked

seat

on his left, and Cecilia on his right, dishing up enthusiastically, she was the picture of a considerate young wife–to–be.

was the odd one out.

son seemed to approve of Cecilia’s “culinary skills,” tucking

carp soup was served. Cecilia ladled out a big bowl for Hogan. He took

“What’s up, Hogan?”

coldly. “Hogan

the

picture of shock as

course, I knew Hogan couldn’t stand ginger. So I used to use lemon juice to get rid

I said, “Sorry, Mrs. Hilary, I’m the one

me in disbelief,

was probably someone

drooped my eyelids, feigning

I caught the hint of

she know, just tonight’s act wasn’t enough. At the right time, they

was a deliberate move on my part.