Chapter 21: Emotional Outburst

Charles suddenly realized that something must have happened in the kitchen for Alicia to be in such a good mood. It was likely related to the plate of pickled cucumbers. He called over the maid who had been serving earlier. "Bring that plate of pickled cucumbers back—I feel like having some," Charles said. The maid's face froze. "My lord, that dish is rather harsh on the stomach. The lady has already taken care of it," she replied nervously. Charles's expression darkened, and a cold aura enveloped him. Just then, Linda gently placed a bowl of soup next to him. "This soup is very nourishing and tastes great too. Would you like to try some, Charles?" she asked sweetly, her eyes locked on him, as if determined not to rest until he drank it. Linda's real motive was to see if Charles's mind was on something—or someone—else. Was he thinking about Alicia, who was still in the kitchen? But Charles pushed the soup back toward Linda, his voice cold. "I don’t want soup right now.