My Lady Chef

Chapter 17 : Affection

Ezran's POV:

I do not know what to make of this woman.

Where was the frightened and sobbing girl I first met at that Inn in Orza Village.

She seems to have vanished and in its place was a more intriguing creature, one who knows how to

win the hearts and affection of my people with her warm manner and creative food.

I have only been observing her since yesterday and heard several comments from various servants.

Almost all of them agreed that the duchess' interest in cooking and food was odd at first but they soon

had positive reactions to it.

This intrigued me very much and somehow I was reluctant to leave the estate after my five-day leave is

over. The trio of cold salads she made was still in my taste buds as I finished a few paperwork in my

study after I escorted the duchess back to the bridal house.

She promised me that she would rest and sit in the kitchen while she teaches her handmaid a few

more preparation techniques she claims to have read in a few books on cooking.

My pen stopped midway as I remembered how she hid the discomfort of her pain as she addressed the

knights and was still poised and graceful even after the knights left for a break. Somehow her

suggestion of a monthly special treat for the knights was now all over the estate grapevine and the

reactions from my men were positive.

I think even Niles is already half in love with her after she gave the idea.

I would be called a devil if I do not approve of her idea when they all love it.

The added expenses won't even dent my coffers since I have lots of businesses and ships to live like

an Emperor for three lifetimes. It is only once a month anyway.

Milford's concern was also another key point that I should discuss with her.

The sleeping arrangements.

"Now that she is far away from me. I can think a bit better.....perhaps her fey blood clouds my

judgment." I placed my hand on my hair and brushed it aside as I signed the approval for the

announcement of my marriage to the local newspaper.

I stared at the paper bearing my name and Alaina's; somehow just reading her name affects me as I

imagined her sweet smile whenever someone asks her about food. the happiness she feels whenever

she is asked to prepare something for them.

She finds joy in serving others instead of lording over them.....

"Alaina......" I sighed out loud. " What kind of woman are you to stay in my head for this long?"

"Milord." Milford's knock made me straighten up as I called for him to enter. " I have escorted Dr.

Romero to the bridal house. The duchess is currently being inspected by her."

I nodded, satisfied with his decision. the Illios law of medical practice has never allowed females to

participate in medicine until a recent amendment two years ago allowed females to study medicine and

Ms. Jane Romero has been lauded as the best female doctor the capital has at the moment.

Maybe I should check in on her?

That very thought was tempting, But I still have a few papers to sign.

Should I call her here? No. She is still in pain from last night...

The black scowl in my face must have been too scary because Milford backed away involuntarily while

still maintaining his polite face.

"If there is nothing else Milord. I need to prepare the dining room for supper."

I nodded and he left me to my work.

Fortunately, the ones left were just reports on my business which I can read tomorrow so I filed them in

my drawer and left for the bridal house immediately.

Somehow the closer I got to the house, the more I feel like seeing her.

I must really be going daft.

The moment I went inside. I immediately demanded to be shown to the duchess's room.

The one who led me to her chambers was another maid and she was trembling as she bowed before

me.

"Your G-grace. Shall I-I announce you?" the maid stammered.

"No need. Go back to your duties." I watched her nod before walking away from me.

I straightened my coat and cleared my throat as I knocked and called out.

"It's me."

There were a few seconds of silence and after a while, her voice answered.

"Come in."

The room looks bare now that all her belongings have been moved to the other house.

The female doctor who had brown hair threaded with grey strands stood up and curtsied to me while

my wife remained seated on the bed, Seeing that she was looking better eased my worries as I

approached her.

"Your complexion is better," I said in a relieved tone before I faced Dr. Romero. " Thank you for coming

here again doctor."

Jane looked me in the eye with an assessing stare before she zipped her bag close.

"It seems like Her Grace's concerns are nothing to be worried about. Here are the pills she needs to

take; I have already given her enough for 3 days. Avoid any...roughhousing for at least a week. If she

wants another checkup, please send a manservant to my office."

I was impressed at this woman's defense and professional voice, normally females are not comfortable

within my presence but it seems like she is not weak-hearted.

"Dr. Romero, I want to offer you a chance to be the personal doctor to my wife. " I found myself liking

the middle-aged lady who did not seem to wilt in my presence. "Please think it over and pen me a letter

on your decision."

"I will give you an answer tomorrow then Your Grace. Have a good evening Signorina Duchessa." she

put her top hat on her head and I saw a maid escort her out.

Once her footsteps faded. I sat down beside Alaina and caressed her cheek which surprised her for a

while before she relaxed in my presence.

"Did I worry you too much, milord?" she looked at me with some concern.

"Yes. I should have forbidden you from moving too much. If I had not seen you moving like...a wounded

puppy; it might have gotten worse." I admonished her but made sure to keep my irritation from

showing. "You are not allowed to do anything too strenuous until next week when the lady doctor

comes back to check on you."

Her blue-green eyes bore into mine as if she was staring straight into my soul. I found myself holding

my breath for her reaction.

"Very well. I will not do anything that will tire me. Is that acceptable milord husband?" she replied in

soothing tones with a serene face.

I half expected her to object but it seems like she can be sensible too.

"Shall we go now to the main house for supper?" she tried to stand up but my arm was already around

her to help her up.

She have a little shout of surprise when I hoisted her up in my arms as I walked out of the room.

Her handmaid opened the door promptly and trailed behind me. I felt several servants staring at us,

their shock was justified as I have never done this for any woman before in my life.

But as I felt her head rest trustingly against my shoulder, the feeling of warmth just burst open inside

my chest.

I soon realized this feeling was....affection.

It was an emotion that mystified me more than lust.