Amelia
The aroma of freshly prepared food wafted through the kitchen. Each scent seemed to sharpen my awareness of my empty stomach. It made my mouth water and my stomach churn violently. As I arranged the silver platters carefully I felt the struggle to maintain my composure grow stronger. I knew I needed to push through the comfort and keep my resolve, even as the very essence of the food around me threatened to overwhelm my senses.
Earlier, I’d tried asking Other maids about the meeting, hoping to prepare myself for whatever awaited me in that room. But they’d only given me dismissive looks and muttered warnings.
“Just serve the food and keep your eyes down, girl,” the maid said, her voice carrying an edge of concern. “Don’t draw attention to yourself. You’re new here, and Alpha Xav
