Chapter 24

"I never see you eat so much, madam," Lina's voice cut through me as I raised the spoon filled with rice. She stood across the table, amused. I focused back on the scoop, putting it whole in my mouth, and then picked up the remaining grains with my spoon.

It was evening, and the day after Maestro was gone, last night had made all the difference. I slept in my nightgown with the lights on, which I couldn't do if he had been around.

I also found out they had a beautiful garden in the manor, so I spent my afternoon there with a book, listening to the birds chirp.

It was such an experience until I looked up and found Sir Derinem behind a window, eyes full on me. I felt very conscious at that moment, rubbing my arm, and was about to leave, but when I looked up again, he was gone.

"It's so good, Lina," I groaned. "I've never been so hungry in my life."

She collected my plate and refilled it. "Boss Derinem, tell me to provide you with what you want.