Chapter 60

She hadn’t had lunch, and now the mouthwatering food smells made her stomach growl loudly. Maria picked up a bite, then glanced up at James. The way he was acting... anyone would get the wrong idea. “These are all Amelia’s favorites. Not sure if it’s your thing,” James said casually. Maria paused. Oh, so that’s what this was? She shoved the bite into her mouth and said through gritted teeth, “Yeah, of course it’s fine. Totally fine.” Not only was she going to eat it—she’d eat a lot. Not leaving a crumb for him. Amelia wasn’t even here, what was the point of ordering her favorite dishes? Show off? By the end of her wolfing-down session, more than half of the dishes were gone. Full and satisfied, Maria didn’t bother with the mess left on the table. She slung her bag over her shoulder, glanced at her watch, and feigned surprise. “Wow, it’s already over an hour past clock-out time. I should be going. There’s a bit left—have it later, James.” Before he could reply, she hummed a tune and str