Chapter 618
Chapter 618:
Beverley nodded at him without bothering to glance at Gabriela.
Gabriela offered her greetings, receiving only a faint response before Beverley settled back and closed her eyes.
Gabriela felt no irritation; she stood quietly nearby, even finding time to admire the developing lotus buds decorating the pond. Once those flowers opened, this spot would become perfect for morning coffee and peaceful contemplation.
Wealthy individuals certainly mastered the art of gracious living.
Nearly an hour passed before Beverley opened her eyes and spoke softly. “Take a seat p>
Gabriela took her place across from Beverley.
Beverley’s elevated position created an intimidating atmosphere as she examined Gabriela with cold calculation. At first glance, Gabriela appeared to be an attractive young woman, nothing more.
“I learned you’ve recently received numerous gifts from Matthew.” Beverley smirked.
𝘍𝗶𝗇𝘥 ո𝘰𝗏𝘦𝗅 р𝗗F𝘀 𝗈ո 𝗴а𝘭ոо𝘃е𝘭ѕ.cо𝗺
Gabriela immediately denied it. “Mrs. Howard, your son did send me various items, but I refused them all. What I accepted was the compensation he offered for Rebecca’s wrongdoings p>
Alberto’s expression darkened with disapproval.
How dare this woman speak to Beverley with such boldness?
Beverley apparently considered direct conversation with Gabriela beneath her dignity.
She gestured toward Alberto. “Remove her p>
Gabriela followed Alberto calmly as he guided her toward the kitchen. “Miss Haynes, Mrs. Howard will be keeping you for the evening meal p>
“I see.” Gabriela nodded with understanding.
Alberto continued with his explanation, “As a first-time visitor to Mrs. Howard’s residence, you’ll be expected to contribute to certain preparations p>
Gabriela had no desire to remain for dinner.
Yet she recognized that failing to appease Beverley today would weave complications into tomorrow’s fabric, entangling both herself and her company in unwanted difficulties.
Beverley radiated a more formidable presence than Lauren or Rebecca.
Gabriela sighed. “Very well p>
Witnessing Gabriela’s compliance, Alberto summoned servants who delivered an enormous basin brimming with lotus roots. Thick mud caked the roots, creating a miniature mountain of earthy debris.
Alberto instructed, “Miss Haynes, these lotus roots require thorough cleansing. Additionally, some roots harbor mud within their chambers, so complete purification is essential p>
Gabriela inclined her head. “Consider it done p>
She had anticipated some herculean challenge, yet this task was a piece of cake for her.
Gabriela pushed her sleeves beyond her elbows and attacked the muddy coating with swift efficiency, scrubbing each root until it gleamed. Then she sliced them open, examining every hollow for hidden dirt.
Two hours dissolved as she rendered the entire collection spotless.
Alberto observed with genuine astonishment.
Even four seasoned servants working in harmony might struggle to achieve such pristine results within the same timeframe.
This young woman possessed unexpected capabilities.
Alberto then produced a basin overflowing with edamame, his tone maintaining its courteous cadence. “Miss Haynes, if you would be so kind as to shell these p>
Gabriela’s fingers danced through the pods with practiced grace.
Finally, Alberto delivered his ultimate test. “Miss Haynes, our chef finds himself indisposed today, so preparing Mrs. Howard’s dinner falls to you p>
He proceeded to recite the evening’s requirements. Thirteen distinct dishes accompanied by soup and an appetizer awaited creation.
Gabriela absorbed each detail with focused attention, inquired about Beverley’s culinary preferences, then embarked upon her cooking odyssey.
Though thirteen courses suggested overwhelming complexity, Beverley’s kitchen boasted professional-grade equipment.
Gabriela orchestrated her preparation like a conductor, readying ingredients while multiple dishes progressed simultaneously across various burners.
Aromatic soup bubbled contentedly in its designated pot.
Less than two hours later, the complete feast emerged in triumphant completion.
Twilight had painted the sky in dusky hues, creating perfect ambiance for the evening meal.
Beverley had monitored Alberto’s progress reports throughout the afternoon, gradually becoming aware of Gabriela’s remarkable competence. Something shifted within her weathered heart.
When she approached the dining table, the spectacular array of perfectly presented dishes released their intoxicating fragrances, and her stern features softened almost imperceptibly.
She selected a delicate slice of the stir-fried lotus root.
Paper-thin yet maintaining its satisfying crunch, the morsel delivered unexpected sweetness that danced across her palate.
Beverley sampled additional offerings, discovering each preparation exceeded her expectations.
The family’s professional chef paled in comparison to Gabriela’s culinary mastery.
Beverley found herself savoring each successive bite with growing appreciation.