Chapter 13: Longing for the Past, Treasuring the Future
Lariette didn't expect her guess to turn out to be true. The shock was reflected in her widened eyes.
"You really... cooked them all?"
Ruediger's lips carved into a joyous smile before laughter escaped, lifting his cheekbones higher. His crimson fringes swayed on his forehead, casting faint shadows on his face.
Lariette blinked, feeling the heat emanating from her cheeks. Putting the bowl on the table, her eyes still lingered on the laughing Ruediger.
Lariette didn't know why but, she appreciated Ruediger's relaxing and casual ways. His actions were similar to Madeline's, perhaps because they were close.
Being with Ruediger—despite only meeting him recently—brought more comfort to Lariette than being with Damien even though they were in a relationship for two years.
"I was at Maddie's cafe when she called them to prepare food for you," explained Ruediger as his laughter gradually faded, "I replaced a cook on that day."
Lariette intently listened to Ruediger. The distant chatter and laughter from other visitors blended with the echoes of nature, reduced into background noises.
"Then, I heard about your plan. I'm trying to hook you through my cooking. So, how is it? Do you like my food? Enough to pick me as your contract husband? I can cook and do chores well. I can be a good househusband for you."
Laughter easily bubbled out of Lariette's mouth. Ruediger's excuses tickled her heart. She covered her mouth with both hands, her eyes crinkling with amusement.
Tilting his head, Ruediger smilingly witnessed the radiance beaming from Lariette's joyful countenance. The echo of her giggles gently brushed his heart, reminding him that this was real.