Chapter 18
Thinking back, Anathea realized that if Gregory ever found out she’d secretly taken photos of them, he’d probably make her delete every last one on the spot.
That was how much he avoided being seen with her–whether at their wedding or now, during their impending divorce.
It was no surprise that no one ever believed she was actually Mrs. Sinclair.
Anathea smirked at the thought, but thankfully for her, none of that mattered anymore. She no longer cared about titles or labels. In a month, she’d be leaving the Sinclair family for good.
“Here, try my creamy white fish chowder!” Brisa suddenly said. Then, she clapped her hands, signaling a maid to bring over the dish. The rich, savory aroma filled the air immediately.
The soup was a velvety blend of flaky white fish and tender potatoes, with hints of leeks and garlic, simmered to perfection in a creamy broth. Crisp pancetta added a subtle smokiness, while earthy mushrooms balanced the flavors. It was garnished with
fresh chives.
Anathea’s grandmother used to make this dish for her all the time. Later, Anathea took the bowl a maid handed her and carefully took a sip. The moment the familiar taste hit her tongue, her eyes welled up with tears.
It tasted exactly like the dish her grandmother used to make. She’d eaten Brisa’s cooking many times before, but for some reason, this time felt different.
A lump formed in her throat, and silent tears rolled down her cheeks before she knew it.
“What’s wrong?” Brisa immediately looked concerned. “Why are you crying all of a sudden? Did that brat Gregory do something again? Just say the word, and I’ll straighten him out!”
“No, that’s not it.” Anathea quickly wiped her tears and forced a smile. “It’s just… Your cooking is too good.‘
Brisa sighed in relief and handed her a tissue, gently wiping away the damp streaks on her face. “Well, eat as much as you want.
There’s plenty to go around.”
“Okay.” Anathea nodded, scooping up another bite and finishing it down to the last drop. This was the most appetite she’d had
since her last bout of gastritis.
Just then, a cheerful, familiar voice rang out. “Something smells delicious!”
Anathea turned toward the sound and saw Isabel Sinclair–Gregory’s cousin–walking over with an easy smile.
Isabel greeted her warmly. “Anathea, you’re here too?”
Unlike Gregory, who was always distant, Isabel was outgoing and easy to get along with. She treated Anathea just like any
younger sister–in–law would–friendly and without hostility.
1/2
Chapter 18
Anathea gave her a slight nod and responded gently, “Hey, Izzy.”
“Wow, Grandma made creamy white fish chowder?” Isabel gasped dramatically, turning to Brisa with a playful pout. “You made something this good and didn’t even call me? Am I not your favorite granddaughter anymore?”
“You’re acting as if I don‘
make this often!” Brisa scoffed, shaking her head. “Hurry up and dig in!”
“You don’t have to tell me twice!” Isabel plopped down beside Anathea, grabbed a bowl, and ladled a generous serving for herself.
After the first spoonful, her eyes lit up. “Mmm! It’s so good! Lucky for me that Anathea is here–otherwise, I wouldn’t have gotten to taste Grandma’s cooking today!”
“You’re such a smooth talker,” Brisa scolded, but there was nothing but fondness on her face. “What’s the matter? Didn’t get enough to eat at Eleanor’s birthday party, so you ran here instead?”
Isabel grinned, enjoying the special attention. Then, she waved dismissively, saying, “The food at the birthday party was fine, but it’s just the same fancy stuff we always have. Nothing exciting. Your cooking is way better, Grandma! I could eat this every day!”
Her words made Brisa laugh, and she happily piled more food onto Isabel’s plate. Meanwhile, Anathea stayed quiet, eating slowly and letting the two of them enjoy their moment.
But in the next instant, Isabel turned to her and leaned in curiously, asking, “By the way, I saw Gregory and Xander in the garden earlier. Why aren’t you with them?”
limited offer: Top up now to get 5% more bonus
Comments
Support
GET IT
X
