Chapter 114
Irene’s POV
After a week away, being back in this house felt surreal. There was a certain satisfaction in watching Eva’s face fall, her initial confidence crumbling into visible frustration I’d barely stepped through the door when she tried to regain control, her sharp eyes zeroing in on me, but I wasn’t about to give her any power over my return. I intended to keep her guessing. A little mystery, I knew, would drive her insane.
Eva’s voice cut through the silence, shrill and indignant. “What are you doing back so soon, Irene? Her attempt to keep her composure was thin, her irritation evident in the way she clutchel at her sweater sleeves.
I simply smiled. letting a light laugh escape as I removed my co casually draping it over the entryway chair. “Oh, you know, I thought it might be time to come back. I do live here, after all.”
Eva’s mouth tightened into a line, and she crossed her arms, clearly waiting for a fuller explanation. But I didn’t intend to give her one. Instead. I left her standing there, her questions hanging in the air unanswered. Keeping quiet about my reasons and plans would drive her absolutely crazy–and that thought alone gave me more satisfaction than any confrontation could.
She shifted her stance, stepping closer. “You don’t get to just waltz in here as if everything is fine. There are things in motion, Irene.” Her tone was biting, but there was an edge of desperation there, barely masked by her condescending demeanor
I leaned back against the banister, feigning innocence as I regarded her. “Oh, I’m well aware of that.” I looked around the entryway, noting the faint traces of fabric samples and color swatches she’d left behind on a nearby table. “In fact, I’m sure those designers had quite an interesting time today, didn’t they?
A flicker of something–surprise, maybe–crossed her face, but she quickly covered it with an icy glare. “You have no right to interfere in this house, Irene. I’m here now, and things are going to change.
I chuckled softly, shaking my head as if indulging a child’s tantrum. “Change? In “this house? I don’t think so. I’ve already spoken to the decorators and thanked them for their time.” I shrugged, watching her expression darken “They won’t be returning. Nothing in this house will change unless I approve it After all.” I stepped closer, letting my words drop with intentional weight. “I’m the only Mrs. Chad.”
Her mouth opened, but for once, she seemed lost for words. It was satisfying, to say the least. With a small, dismissive smile I turned on my heel, making my way upstairs, letting my presence be felt without another word. Eva had lost, and she knew it. And so, I’d finally returned.
- a
When the evening came, I was in my element, getting ready a lavish meal in the kitchen. Cooking had always serv source of therapeutic relief, allowing me to redirect my energy and emotions, and now, to regain ownership of my living space. My goal was to transform every corner of this kitchen into my own again, where every scent and taste signify my comeback.
I arranged a selection of ingredients on the kitchne counter, enjoying the comforting routiene of cutting, chopping, and organizing ripe veggies and herbs. Initially, I began with an antipasto platter that included aged cheeses, prosciutto, and marinated olives displayed elegant ly on a wooden board. I desired a flawless evening where every little thing was perfect.
While the water was boiling, I added a lot of olive oil to a deep pan, along with chopped garlicz and shallots, filling the kitchen with their delightfu scent. I was getting ready a flavorful marinara sauce for a traditional lasagna, azsemblingn it with ricotta, mozzarella, and homemade pasta sheets that I had freshly rolled out. I leisurely enjoyed the process, appreciating each step as the layers combined to create a cozy meal.
After putting the lasagna in the oven, I started preparing a creamy risotto with mushrooms and truffle oil, stirring carefully to ensure each grain soaked up the flavors. It had been a long time since I cooked with such passion, putting my heart into each dish. The kitchen was vibrant with smells, the air saturated with the aroma of basil, rosemary, and gently cooking
tomatoes
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Chapter 114
NOV
In the end, I made a subtle–tiramisu for dessert by assembling roscarpone and espresso–soaked ladyfingers, then sprinkling cocoa powder on top. I put it in the refrigerator to firm up, the list detail in what I hoped would be a memorable dinner.
The table was prepared, each dish was organized perfectly, set for a family meal that seemed to acknowledge my existence in a peaceful manner. While lighting the candles on the table, a feeling of tranquility came over me. I was taking back control of this house, one meal after another.
Shortly after. I listened as the front door was opened, and Damien, Delores, and Charlie’s familiar noises signaled their return. The house was filled with their laughter and voices, blending with the aromas drifting from the kitchen. It was exactly what I had longed for a feeling of bieng with my family, a genuine warmth that money can’t buy.
“Mummy!” Charlie’s voice filled the kitchen as he rushed in, his face lighting up at the sight of the food on the table. “Is there a party happening?”
“Of course, darling.” I responded with a smile, tousling his hair.believed it was about time for us to enjoy a lovely dinner together as a family.”
Delores entered next, her eyes widening at the sight. “Irene, you’ve really outdone yourself. Everything looks incredible.” She embraced me and quietly said, “I’m glad you’re here again.
Eventually. Damien entered, his face impossible to decipher as he surveyed the scene in front of him. Glancing at the table and then at me, there was a flicker in his eyes that I couldn’t quite identify possibly relief or a touch of surprise.
“You really went all out,” he murmured, a small smile breaking through his usual guarded expression.
I nodded, keeping my tone light. “Well, I figured I’d come back with a little flair.” I gestured to the table. “Take a seat. everyone. Let’s enjoy.”
As we settled in, the meal unfolded like a scene from a life I’d almost forgotten–a life that felt simple and warm, one I wanted to hold onto. We talked, laughed, shared stories, and for a moment, everything felt as it should.
Damien gazed at me from the other side of the table with a newfound warmth in his eyes, causing my heart to momentarily flutter. After facing many challenges and enduring various hardships, this moment seemed like a fresh start I could sense the renewed hope and the opportunities that awaited me.
However, as we completed our dessert, I caught a glimpse of something moving kn my peripheral vision. Eva was positioned just outside the door, observing our actions. She had a look of both resentment and disbelief, unable to understand how I had regained my position in her meticulously crafted realm.
I looked back at my family one last time with a rebellious look, concentrating on their laughter and the warmth, allowing her to slowly disappear from my mind.
For now, I was home.
And that is all that mattered.
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