Chapter 42: Secret and motive

Chelsea spent the morning immersed in her kitchen duties, her hands working methodically as her mind wandered to the surprise Liam had planned the previous night. She had managed to maintain composure during their outing, but his intentions toward her lingered heavily in her thoughts. Reese had been ecstatic about the evening, teasing Chelsea relentlessly when she returned home, but Chelsea still struggled to interpret Liam’s feelings and her own.

By mid-afternoon, the bustling energy in the kitchen was palpable. Staff moved about swiftly, prepping for the week’s events, and Chelsea tried to focus on her responsibilities. She was stirring a sauce when the head...