Back at Blackthorn Manor, the Christmas Eve celebration was in full swing. Without Lucian’s volatile presence to disrupt the evening, the atmosphere was thick with festive warmth and the rich, savory scent of a holiday feast.
Helena had remained at the estate since her last visit. For this special night, she and Adrian had shared the kitchen, preparing a spread of their respective signature dishes. Helena’s food tasted of nostalgic comfort, but what truly surprised Selena was Adrian’s skill.
The rumors among the maids weren't just about his silver tongue and flirtatious wink; his culinary talent was legitimate. His ambition to be a Michelin-starred chef clearly wasn't just a cover story. As Selena tasted the perfectly seared meat, she had to admit his cooking rivaled the executive chefs
