Broken Vows and Buried Twins novel Chapter 183

"Is that so?" Julian's deep voice sounded notably softer than usual. "I'm sure that's all thanks to you, Caden."

Listening to the harmonious exchange coming from the living room, Hester remained completely still in her seat.

Lena emerged from the kitchen and placed a steaming bowl of noodle soup in front of her.

The noodles were topped with a perfectly fried egg, fresh greens, and a generous drizzle of Lena's homemade beef sauce. It was a special mild recipe that Lena had concocted specifically for Hester's palate.

Hester absolutely loved that beef sauce.

She murmured her thanks and focused on eating.

Lena shot a disapproving look toward the living room before her gaze softened with sympathy and helpless frustration as she watched Hester eating all alone.

...

Hester managed to finish about half the bowl before her appetite gave out.

The rich broth and hearty noodles were filling, leaving her satisfied.

Lena quietly cleared the dishes away to the kitchen.

Hester stood up, intending to go for a brief walk outside, only to find Seraphina standing right behind her.

"Hester," Seraphina said, holding up the cake box with a bright smile. "This is made with real dairy cream, so it's going to melt if I leave it out. I figured I should put it in the fridge."

Hester's gaze flicked to the dessert.

It was a six-inch cake, decorated with a surprising level of elegance.

"Lena is in the kitchen. You can just hand it to her," Hester replied flatly.

Seraphina nodded accommodatingly. "Alright."

Hester stepped past her and headed straight for the backyard gardens.

Seraphina stopped at the kitchen entrance, turning to watch Hester's retreating figure with a calculating gleam in her eyes.

...

Hester paused, typed out the final word of her email, and hit send.

She pocketed her phone and turned around.

Seraphina was holding a platter piled high with freshly washed strawberries and cherries.

"Lena just washed these. Would you like some?"

"Thank you," Hester replied, her tone polite but distant. "I'm still full from breakfast. Take them inside for you and Caden to enjoy."

"I see..." Seraphina shifted on her feet, looking hesitant. "Actually, I was hoping to find a moment to speak with you alone."

Hester looked at her blankly. "What is there to talk about?"

Seraphina chewed her bottom lip nervously before speaking.

"I know you only agreed to let me visit for Caden's sake. I also know that I handled things terribly in the past. But ever since Ms. Linden started working with me, I've learned so much. I've realized a lot of my mistakes. Over the past couple of days, I've been thinking... since we are family, I owe you a sincere apology."