âDuring my time abroad, I had the fortunate opportunity to visit the country and indulge in its delectable cuisine,â Violeta reminisced.
Nala listened thoughtfully before inquiring, âAnd how did you find it, Mrs.
Simmons?â
âIt was quite enjoyable.
Each country indeed offers its own distinct culinary delights.
â
Unaware of the underlying intention behind Nalaâs question, Violeta responded casually, focusing on savoring the delicious food in her bowl.
Nala glanced at the two chefs and the servants standing nearby at the table.
After a moment of contemplation, Nala inquired with a smile, âIâve been here for a few days now, and Iâm longing to taste the flavors of Zephyria.
Could you indulge my desire, Mrs.
Simmons?â
Violeta paused, understanding the implication behind Nalaâs request.
âMiss Diaz, do you have someone in mind?â
âI know of a Zephyrian chef, an old acquaintance.
Could we perhaps enlist his talents for a few days? I would relish the opportunity to savor the tastes of home,â Nala proposed.
Hiring a chef was a small matter to Violeta, with no compelling reason to decline.
Furthermore, she had promised Nala the previous night to honor her requests.
âOf course.
Miss Diaz, if it brings you joy, we shall arrange for the chefâs arrival tomorrow,â Violeta replied graciously.
Nalaâs face lit up with delight.
âWonderful!â
Concealing a subtle glint in
her eyes, Nala entertained a new idea.
âMr.
Simmons is under the weather, yet Lucinda has yet to visit him.
Why not suggest she return home tomorrow and join us for Zephyrian cuisine?â
Violeta sensed an underlying motive in Nalaâs suggestion.
Was she plotting something?
Meeting Nalaâs gaze, Violeta observed her radiant smile, marveling at her adeptness in portraying innocence and charm before the assembled company.
Despite Violetaâs uncertainty about Nalaâs intentions, she didnât hesitate for long, knowing Lucinda had given her instructions to follow.
âWell, Graham is her brother.
He fell ill due to her punishment.
She truly ought to return.
Thereâs no excuse to decline.
â
With matters settled to her satisfaction, Nalaâs smile grew even brighter.
âExcellent.
Consider it settled.
Iâll reach out to the chef and arrange for him to visit tomorrow morning to acquaint himself with your kitchen and utensils.
In the evening, heâll prepare some specialty for us.
â
After the dinner concluded, Violeta dialed Lucindaâs number, holding the phone in front of Nala as if to ensure transparency in their communication.
âLucinda, itâs about Graham⦠Heâs fallen ill.
Heâs been quite listless lately.
It would mean a lot if you could come back and see him.
By the way, do join us for dinner.
After all, Miss Diaz is our esteemed guest, and you invited her to the Simmons family.
As the host, your presence is essential.
â
Judging by Violetaâs tone and manner, Lucinda surmised that Nala was right next to her.
âUnderstood,â Lucinda replied tersely, her tone cold.
âIâll return after finishing my tasks tomorrow afternoon.
â