Chapter 23

After returning home, Lucien bought a large bag of food, seemingly intent on showing off, which surprised Flora. “You can cook?” Lucien smiled at her, tied on an apron with practiced ease, and picked up a kitchen knife. “I always cooked for myself when I was abroad. I don't know many recipes, but I can still whip up something decent.” Flora nodded reluctantly. She wanted to help, but Lucien pushed her aside without a word. Mr. Hill and Mrs. Hill also came downstairs, pushing her to sit on the sofa. “This is what Lucien should be doing. Which fiancé doesn’t cook? Just wait with your parents for dinner.” They smiled gently, reminding her of the times she and Carlton were together, when she would wash her hands and cook for him. Now the kitchen was filled with the warmth of cooking, her parents sat beside her, silently caring for her, warming her once-frozen heart little by little, like a traveler accustomed to living in the snow finally finding an oasis. She hid the tears in her ey