Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 12

**Chapter 12**

In that moment, the servants entered the room, gracefully balancing trays laden with an array of dishes. Victoria’s face lit up as she turned to Ophelia, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Samuel mentioned that you have a fondness for sweet treats, so I made sure the kitchen prepared a delightful spread just for you today. I hope you enjoy it!”

“Really? Thank you so much, Mom!” Ophelia exclaimed, her eyes widening with delight. The mention of sweets ignited a warmth within her; she had always adored desserts, yet during her time with the Vossen family, her preferences had often been overlooked. The thought of being back in a place where her likes were acknowledged filled her with a sense of belonging. *Finally, I can indulge in what I truly enjoy,* she mused, a smile spreading across her face.

With a sense of eagerness, she picked up her fork and began sampling the dishes before her, joy radiating from her as she savored each bite, her expression one of pure bliss.

However, Zoe’s reaction was quite the opposite. The moment the sweet dishes were unveiled, her face fell, darkening like a storm cloud. She had always preferred her meals to pack a punch, bursting with spices that set her taste buds alight. Memories flooded back of previous family dinners where the table would be brimming with fiery delicacies. But tonight, all that surrounded her were sugary confections. “Ophelia, you enjoy sweets as well? How lovely,” she said, forcing a smile. “I’m a huge fan of desserts too. I was worried I’d be stuck with another evening of spicy food cravings; thank goodness you’re back.”

Owen, seated nearby, was unusually animated, his usual quiet demeanor replaced by a buoyant energy. He beamed at Ophelia, clearly relishing the meal. “Seriously! Now you can share the sweet stuff with me,” he added, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

“Of course! From now on, let’s make sweet dishes our go-to,” Ophelia replied, casting Owen a warm and affectionate glance, feeling a sense of camaraderie blossoming between them.

Adrian chuckled from his seat, shaking his head in mock disbelief. “You, picky eater! But don’t fret; our family’s tastes are quite aligned. I’ll make sure the kitchen knows to focus on sweet dishes from here on out.”

“That sounds fantastic! Ophelia, I’m so thrilled you’re home,” Owen exclaimed, grabbing another piece of dessert and practically inhaling it, his face lighting up with delight.

Laughter and lively conversation filled the air as the family enjoyed their meal together, the atmosphere warm and inviting.

Yet, amidst the joviality, no one seemed to notice how little Zoe was actually eating.

“Absolutely, the chef’s cooking aligns perfectly with my tastes,” Ophelia replied, her smile gentle yet knowing. “It’s fascinating how family ties influence our palates; it seems we share more than just blood. Zoe, you really should try more. How about this one?” As she spoke, she subtly signaled to a servant, who promptly added a generous piece of pudding to Zoe’s plate.

Zoe’s heart sank at the sight, but with everyone’s eyes glued to her, she felt cornered. To prove her worthiness as a Rowle, she forced herself to take a bite. “Yes, family is family. Everything is wonderful,” she managed to say, though the words felt heavy on her tongue.

As she chewed, the sweetness overwhelmed her senses, her stomach churning in protest.

Owen observed her with a puzzled expression. Hadn’t Zoe once declared pudding to be the worst dessert ever? Why was she eating it now? His mind raced with confusion as he tried to reconcile her current behavior with her previous declarations.

Seeing Zoe attempt to adapt to their tastes, Adrian smiled, a look of satisfaction crossing his face. “Zoe used to be all about spicy food, but it seems she’s managing to enjoy sweets now. This is perfect—our family can finally share the same menu. Starting tomorrow, let’s make every meal sweet!”