Ruining The King

Chapter 2.2:Breakfast for my husband

The following morning, Amelia woke to the unfamiliar melody of birdsong filtering through the window. It was a welcome change from the cacophony of the Whitestone servants that usually roused her. Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself for the day ahead. Her first encounter with the General loomed, a prospect that sent a tremor of apprehension through her.

Descending the stairs, she found Sarah bustling about the kitchen, a symphony of clinking pots and pans filling the air. The aroma of freshly baked bread sent a warmth through Amelia's stomach, reminding her of simpler times.

"Good morning, Lady Whitestone," Sarah greeted her with a warm smile. "Did you sleep well?"

Amelia offered a hesitant smile. "Yes, thank you, Sarah. It's...different here."

Sarah chuckled softly. "Change can be unsettling, but it can also be an opportunity for new beginnings." Her voice held a gentle wisdom that soothed Amelia's nerves.

"I hope you're right," Amelia replied, her voice barely a whisper.

"Mr. Prince won't be down for breakfast," Sarah continued. "He usually has a light meal in his study."

A flicker of relief washed over Amelia. A few stolen moments to gather her courage before facing the unknown were a welcome reprieve.

After a breakfast of toast and jam, Sarah offered to show Amelia the gardens. Stepping outside, Amelia was greeted by a breathtaking display of vibrant flowers and manicured lawns. A sense of peace settled over her, a stark contrast to the constant tension that had become her life.

Suddenly, a deep voice startled her.

"This is a beautiful garden, Sarah. Did you arrange these flowers yourself?"

Amelia turned to see a tall, imposing figure standing on the porch. He was dressed in a simple black suit, his dark hair neatly combed. Though handsome in a rugged way, his eyes held a coldness that made her shiver. Was this the General, the man who now held her fate in his hands.

"Good morning, Mr. Prince," Sarah chirped, her usual warmth slightly subdued.

"Yes, I did arrange them myself. Lady Whitestone has just arrived." The General's gaze fell upon Amelia, his expression unreadable. A tense silence stretched between them, broken only by the chirping of birds.

Finally, he spoke, his voice a low rumble.

"Amelia," he acknowledged, a curt nod following his words. "Welcome to your new home."

Amelia swallowed, her voice catching in her throat. "Thank you," she managed, forcing a small smile.

The General's response was a flicker of something in his eyes – suspicion? Curiosity? It was impossible to tell.

"I have some matters to attend to this morning," he said, turning towards the house. "Sarah, please ensure Lady Whitestone is comfortable. Oh, and please correct the misunderstanding before my brother kills me."

With that, he strode back inside, leaving Amelia feeling more lost and confused than ever. Sarah, sensing her distress, placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

After my morning routine, I made my way to the kitchen. I found Sara, whom I just found is actually Mrs. Astor in the kitchen getting ready to prepare breakfast. She had all the ingredients on the table ready to start.

"Good morning, Mrs. Astor," I greeted Sarah as I walked into the kitchen. She jumped in surprise as she heard my voice.

"Lady Whitestone, is everything alright? Was the bed not comfortable enough?" I smiled and shook my head.

"Oh no, Mrs. Astor, the bed was comfortable, but I was wondering if it is possible. I could help with breakfast," I requested, biting my lower lip. Mrs. Astor was taken by surprise at my request, as if not knowing what to say, she simply nodded and helped me tie the apron behind me.

"Oh darling, you don't need my permission to make breakfast, you are going to be the lady of the house," Sarah said in a joyful and gentle tone. My heart ached as Sarah laid all the ingredients in front of me.

"I'll cut the veggies for you," she had a motherly tone, and it made the ache in my heart hurt more. These were moments Amelia wished she could share with her mother, but unfortunately, she was deprived of that.

"Lady Whitestone, is everything alright?" Sarah asked, concern laced in her tone. Amelia shook her head.

"It's nothing, just feeling a bit nostalgic," Amelia said, giving Sarah a small smile. Sarah just nodded and continued with chopping the vegetables for Amelia.