Angelo felt upset after Alonzo kicked him under the table but didnât say anything, though his
expression showed his frustration. He wanted to study, but Elora was far stricter than their teachers,
and even the elders in the family didnât challenge her, so neither could they.
Alonzo, feeling both sad and frustrated, turned to food for comfort. He ate a lot at lunch, and it was
only when Elora worried that he was overeating that she made him stopâhe really might have
eaten too much. He secretly hoped that if he was too full, he wouldnât have to do his homework.
After lunch, Elora spoke to Tatum, âTatum, after your break, can you make some snacks for Alonzo
and the others? Also, leave some for Tinsleyâshe loves your snacks the most. I wonât be back for
dinner tonight, so feel free to plan your evening as you
like.â
She added, âBy the way, about the New Year holidayâdo you mind working during that time? I can
offer you five times your usual salary, plus holiday gifts and red envelopes.â Elora knew that New
Year was the most relaxing time for her and didnât want to worry about meals. She hoped Tatum
would stay and work through the holiday, but she was willing to compensate him generously for it.
Tatum looked at her kindly.
Elora noticed his gaze and felt like there was something more behind it, but she couldnât quite
understand what. She shook off the thought, assuming Tatum admired herâafter all, he looked at
everyone the same way, except when talking about cooking. His passion for food was the only thing
that truly lit up his eyes.
Elora silently scolded herself for overthinking.
Tatum softly replied, âMy grandmother is quite old, and she looks forward to having the family
together for New Year. Itâs a big deal for her.â
He gently explained that his grandmother was expecting him to come home, making it hard for him
to give up his holiday time.
Elora pressed her lips together and thought for a moment.
âBrother Tatum, if youâre going home for New Year, can I come with you?â Angelo asked. âI heard
from Alonzo that itâs warmer there. I donât want to be cold during the holiday!â
âAnd me! I want to go too!â Alonzo chimed in.
Mrs. Ormond almost asked if she could join as well, but she hesitated and held back. Instead, she
quickly thought of another idea and suggested to Elora, âElora, we havenât traveled as a family in a
long time, and Iâve never been to Wiltspoon. How about we go there for a New Year trip? Iâve heard
the food is great, and itâs much warmerâabout ten degrees warmer than here. It would be so
comfortable for us.â
Tatum smiled and offered, âIf you and Miss Elora visit Wiltspoon, Iâd be happy to be your tour guide.
I can take care of your meals, lodging, and transportation. I also have several restaurants thereâ
you should come and try my Wiltspoon specialties.â
However, if Elora did go to Wiltspoon, it might reveal Tatumâs real identity.
He hadnât tried to hide it, but he hadnât been completely open about it either. Tatum was the sixth
young master of the wealthiest family in Wiltspoon. Elora had tried to look into him twice but didnât
find out the truth because his brother, Zachary, had helped keep it hidden. Since Tatum was working
as a chef, Elora didnât dig any deeper.
Elora then said, âTraveling can be exhausting. Iâd rather rest for a few days than go on a long trip.
How old is your grandmother, Tatum? Howâs her health? Is she okay to fly? I could book round-trip
tickets and a hotel for your family, and you could pick them up.â