Derek laced his fingers through Ryleigh’s as they stepped into the quiet dining room. The morning sun poured through the tall windows, casting golden rays across the long table and polished floors. Ryleigh’s heart beat a little faster, not just from the warmth of Derek’s hand but from the strangeness of it all—being here like this, not as a servant, but as… something else.
They approached the buffet, a beautiful spread of brunch favorites. Silver trays gleamed with scrambled eggs, thick-cut bacon, golden waffles dusted with powdered sugar, and a steaming pot of creamy herb potatoes. A smaller tray held fresh-cut fruit—berries, sliced peaches, and ripe melon—and beside it, a platter of pastries drizzled with honey.
Ryleigh hesitated, fingers tightening slightly around the plate in her han
