Chapter 144. A Ship Full of Men

Maggie POV

I wait until the soup is cool enough to eat, but I don’t dawdle. The whole time, I’m watching Cookie hobble around the kitchen getting enough food ready for the crew. He’s letting me eat in peace, but it’s clear he needs help.

So, I hurry up and finish before joining him.

“What can I do?” I ask.

He startles, whipping around with anger in his eyes, though they quickly soften once he recognizes me. “Sorry, Dearie. I’m not exactly used to having someone in the galley with me.”

“No, I’m sorry I startled you,” I tell him. “I’m finished eating, and I’m ready to help. Where can I start?”

He twists his lips into an almost comical frown, pushed over to the side like he’s thinking. “Can’t say I know,” he finally admits. “Guess I’ve grown accustomed to my own routine.”