His Housewife Had Secret Identities novel Chapter 17

Niamh caught the apron in one swift, practiced motion—so automatic she barely realized she'd done it.

But this time, with the stained apron in her hands, she didn't immediately tie it around her waist as she always used to.

Back at every family gathering, she'd been the busiest person in the house.

With more than thirty dishes to prepare, Niamh handled everything herself—from washing and chopping the vegetables to cooking and plating each course.

Her grandfather would always tell her not to work so hard, reminding her there were hired chefs and housekeepers to help. But Niamh knew he preferred her cooking above all, so she'd insist on doing everything herself.

Other relatives, out of respect for her grandfather, would offer her the faintest of compliments—never too enthusiastic, but just enough to be polite.

And when it came time to clear the table and wash the mountain of dishes, it was always Niamh again, quietly tidying up after everyone.

After all, her mother-in-law had always said a woman's worth was in how well she managed a home.

Niamh was exhausted, but at the end of those long days, Jonathan would at least say thank you. Hearing those words, she'd suddenly feel as if the day's work hadn't been so tiring after all—

Looking back, she realized how naïve she had been.

"What are you standing around for? Get moving!" Lucy barked at her.

But Niamh didn't budge. Instead, she tossed the dirty apron aside.

"There are chefs and housekeepers in the kitchen. If I go, I'll just be in the way."

Lucy was taken aback. "What do you mean? Since when does a Thomas daughter-in-law get out of helping?"

Niamh shot her a look. "Aunt Lucy, aren't you a Thomas daughter-in-law too? Why aren't you in there working?"

Lucy nearly bit her tongue in shock.

"Watch your mouth—have some respect. You're the younger generation; you think you can compare yourself to me?"

"If you're the elder, shouldn't you be more considerate—maybe set a good example for us younger folks by pitching in yourself?"

Lucy stared, speechless. In all the years she'd known Niamh, she'd never seen her talk back like this.

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