Chapter 1606

Stella was the apple of her parents' eye. But life was not easy. Born and raised on a farm, Stella had folks who were too busy tending to the fields to cook up meals. Learning to whip up a meal was a survival skill that every child in her village mastered early. Lucas, who was downstairs, watched as Stella, quick and nimble, fetched a lean cut of meat from the fridge. She washed it, sliced it into fine strips, and then plucked a few fresh greens. Her skilled movements belied a novice in the kitchen. Unfortunately, Lucas had never had the chance to taste her cooking. Soon, Stella had prepared a hearty grilled chicken salad. She grabbed a large bowl, filling it to the brim. That was it—one bowl, no leftovers, not even a dressing on the side. Lucas reached out eagerly. "You barely touched your dinner. Aren't you hungry? This is a lot, I can't finish. Let's share it." But Stella ignored his outstretched hand. "Why would I cook if I'm not hungry?" Caught off guard and realizing Stella