My contract love story

For the next two days, Ashleigh remained confined to her room, recovering. Mr. Atkinson or Susan delivered all her meals, medications, and necessities. Though Adrian didn’t stay constantly, he made a point to visit every evening for at least an hour after returning from work. During these visits, Ashleigh persistently questioned him about Robin College, but his answers remained frustratingly vague.

By the weekend, Ashleigh felt strong enough to move around freely. Her eagerness to escape confinement meant breakfast would be her first outing. News of her recovery brought relief and joy to the staff. They eagerly awaited their Madame’s return, and Chef Larry prepared a magnificent feast in her honor.

Ashleigh woke up in a chirpy mood, bustling about the room with Susan. She wanted a complete transformation: fresh sheets and pillows, a lighter scent in the air, new curtains in a brighter color scheme, even a change in toiletries. Everything that reminded her of her gloomy week of illness had to go. Adrian entered to find her talking with Susan, who looked overwhelmed by the numerous requests.

“It’s quite a brisk start to the day, Ashleigh,” he commented, drawing her attention as he stood by the door.

“Good morning, Adrian. I need a complete overhaul,” she explained, watching him approach. “I want a different room when I come back from breakfast. Anything that reminds me of being sick needs to be gone.”

“Your orders will be followed,” he replied. “But for now, breakfast awaits downstairs. I’m sure you’ve been looking forward to it all week.”

They descended the stairs in comfortable silence, where Mr. Turner and Mr. Atkinson greeted them. Mr. Turner wore a lighter expression than usual.

“Good morning, Mr. Turner. It’s good to see you,” Ashleigh greeted him with genuine warmth.

“Good morning, Mrs. Ashleigh. I’m delighted you’re feeling better,” he responded, a smile breaking across his face.

“Mr. Cagliari,” Mr. Atkinson announced, gesturing for them to follow, “breakfast will be held outside this morning.”

Adrian and Ashleigh followed him past the kitchen, their surprise growing as they reached the outdoor dining area. The table was adorned with colorful balloons and strategically placed flowers, creating a vibrant scene. The staff stood by the door, beaming smiles as their Madame approached. Chef Larry stood at the far end, his gaze fixed on Adrian walking beside Ashleigh.

“Good morning, Madame! We’re so happy you’re feeling better!” the staff greeted in unison, their enthusiasm startling Ashleigh slightly.

“Mrs. Cagliari,” Mr. Atkinson began, acting as their spokesperson, “the staff wanted to put together a small celebration for your recovery. The gardeners picked the flowers, the cleaning staff added the balloons, and the kitchen staff prepared the delicious food.”

Ashleigh’s smile widened as she took it all in. This unexpected gesture warmed her heart. “Thank you all,” she said, touched by their thoughtfulness. “This is a truly lovely surprise.” Turning to Mr. Atkinson, she added, “Please make sure everyone enjoys this meal. If there’s not enough, have them prepare more.”

The staff erupted in cheers. Some lingered to personally express their joy at her recovery, while others dispersed. Chef Larry discreetly positioned himself near the table, sending the assistants inside. This subtle movement didn’t escape Adrian’s watchful eye. He took a seat, preparing for his first encounter with the Chef. Since their last phone call, Mr. Atkinson had sent him information on Chef Larry, and one detail had piqued his curiosity. However, Ashleigh’s illness and ongoing business matters had diverted his attention. Now, he finally had the opportunity to meet him.

The two men locked eyes Adrian with a cool stare, Chef Larry with a brief but scrutinizing glance. Chef Larry broke the silence first.

“Good morning, Mr. Cagliari. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person.” He proceeded to serve Adrian a selection of dishes from the spread on the table.

“Chef,” Adrian acknowledged with a nod, “I see you’ve prepared a delightful feast. My compliments.”

Chef Larry bowed respectfully. “I do my best, sir. It’s all for the sake of Mrs. Ashleigh’s recovery.” He glanced back at Ashleigh, who was still conversing with the staff.

Frowning slightly, Adrian was about to speak when Ashleigh returned to the table, effectively cutting him off. The air crackled with a subtle tension, hinting at an underlying dynamic between the Chef and Adrian and Ashleigh, noticed the mood when she got to the table. She decided to lighten the mood.

“Chef Larry, this spread is incredible!” Ashleigh exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she surveyed the beautifully presented dishes.

“I thought you deserved a proper meal after all you’ve been through,” he replied modestly.

“Oh, don’t be humble! The staff mentioned this surprise was your idea too,” she revealed, her gaze meeting his intently.

Adrian’s brow furrowed slightly. “Well,” he began, hesitantly scratching the back of his neck, “seeing you miss your exam after all that hard work… I just wanted to do something, however small, to cheer you up.”

With a grateful smile, Ashleigh took a seat beside Adrian. He politely pulled out her chair and then returned to his own.Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

“How very benevolent of you,” Adrian remarked sarcastically, earning a side-eye from Ashleigh.

“Thank you so much, Chef Larry,” Ashleigh said sincerely, her voice brimming with appreciation. “I truly appreciate your efforts.”

Chef Larry’s response was a gentle smile and a whispered, “It’s no trouble at all, Mrs. Ashleigh.”

The exchange didn’t sit well with Adrian, who cast a disapproving glance at them. An uncomfortable silence descended as Chef Larry catered to Ashleigh’s requests. A strange tension bubbled within Adrian, spoiling his appetite.

“Haven’t touched your food yet, Adrian?” Ashleigh inquired, noticing his untouched plate.

“I was waiting for you,” he grumbled, his gaze fixed on Chef Larry, who seemed oblivious to the rising tension.

Ashleigh followed his stare to see Chef Larry . Realization dawned on her she hadn’t mentioned the chef change.

“Actually,” she began, “I may have forgotten to tell you… Chef Larry is here because Chef Frank had an accident and couldn’t continue. Rather than find a replacement, Chef Larry offered to take on the position full-time.”

“Mr. Atkinson did mention his arrival,” Adrian admitted, his voice strained.

“He seems skilled, but there are a few things that concern me. However, let’s just eat. You need to take your medication soon.”

He picked up his fork, but the initial enthusiasm for the meal seemed to have vanished.

Ashleigh noticed Adrian’s growing displeasure during the meal, but decided to address it later. For now, she relished the delicious food, requesting refills of juice and chatting with Chef Larry. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, like old friends catching up. Larry shared his activities during her illness and even promised to prepare one of his culinary creations from that week.

Meanwhile, Adrian’s irritation simmered with each passing moment. By the time Ashleigh finished her meal and took her medication, his patience had worn thin. He stood up abruptly and left, his foul mood evident to both Ashleigh and Chef Larry.

“I assume Mr. Cagliari isn’t pleased with my presence here,” Chef Larry remarked, a weak smile failing to mask his disappointment. Ashleigh noticed the dejected look he tried to hide.

“Don’t worry, Chef Larry,” she reassured him. “He’s just upset I didn’t tell him about your new role.”

Chef Larry shook his head. “No, I don’t think that’s all of it. I wouldn’t want any misunderstandings on my account. Please, do whatever you need to do if there’s a problem.”

Ashleigh frowned. “Nonsense! Whatever’s bothering him, I’ll handle it. Your position here is secure, you’re part of the family now,” she declared firmly.

He nodded silently, accepting her reassurance.

“Well, I should be going now,” she said, rising from her seat.

Only after she left did Chef Larry look up, a smirk replacing his earlier disappointment. He stared at Ashleigh’s retreating form.