Lyndon stepped aside, offering a smile at Brianâs assertive demeanor.
Gail, amidst her baking preparations, caught sight of Brian attending to Rosalynnâs hands and smiled to herself.
Rumors had circulated that Brian had no affection for his wife, whom he had married against his will, yet his actions suggested quite the contrary.
âRosa, Iâm about to bake some pastries, akin to bread.
Would you care to assist?â Gail invited her after Brianâs gesture was complete.
âIâd Love to,â Rosalynn accepted with a warm smile.
Turning to the two men, Gail proposed, âBrian, Lyndon, perhaps youâd prefer to step outside for a chat? Later, you can taste the bread.
â
âIâll stay and help,â Lyndon offered, though his underlying intent was to remain by Rosalynnâs side.
Brian shot Lyndon a chilly look, murmuring firmly, âIâll stay and help too.
â
Gail flashed a smile and remarked, âHow about you two just wait for the food outside?â
At that moment, Kyson and Selina entered the kitchen.
Upon seeing the pair, Gail instructed, âKyson, would you escort Brian and Lyndon outside for some entertainment?â
Kyson agreed and proposed, âHow about a game of basketball?â
Brian and Lyndon exchanged a glance and concurred, âSure.
â
Their demeanor was frosty and haughty.
They didnât leave as though they were off to a game, but rather as if heading into battle!
Watching the trio depart, Selina turned to Gail and mentioned, âIâll tag along then.
Iâm not much use in the kitchen anyway.
â
Gail responded with an affectionate grin, âGo on then.
Iâm well aware you dislike the cooking smell.
â
âYou know me too well.
â
In a playful display before Rosalynn, Selina planted a kiss on Gailâs cheek and darted off.
Rosalynnâs gaze fell, and she remained silent, though her emotions seemed to stir.
Left alone with Gail in the kitchen, she finally said, âMrs.
Moreno, you shower Miss Forbes with such affection.
Those unaware might mistake her for your own daughter.
â
As Gail kneaded the dough, she shared, âSelinaâs father has faithfully served as our butler for many years, and her mother attended to me for just as long.
When my daughter passed away, it plunged me into grief.
Selinaâs presence helped me find my way out of that sorrow.
She has always been like a daughter to me in my heart.
â
A shadow of sadness briefly crossed her eyes, perhaps a flicker of memory .
Rosalynn joined in kneading the dough to offer support.
âI apologize if my words have brought back painful memories.
â