The Secret Heirs of the Lycan King (by Misha K) novel Chapter 55

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**When Midnight Winds Carry Secrets Toward Worlds Yet Unknown**
**Chapter 55**

**Bella**

As the tantalizing aroma of dinner wafted through the air, I found myself reflecting on the culinary journey I had embarked upon. Four distinct dishes had come to life under my careful hands: zesty lemon herb grilled chicken, a rich and creamy pasta adorned with green peas and a generous sprinkle of parmesan, a vibrant garden salad bursting with the colors of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and briny olives, and finally, golden garlic bread slathered in butter. Each dish was a labor of love, and I took great care in arranging them on the dining table, meticulously placing the plates, forks, knives, and glasses with an artistic flair that made me feel oddly accomplished.

For the first time in what felt like an eternity, a sense of belonging washed over me. This was home, I thought, a place where laughter and love could thrive. Perhaps I was beginning to soften toward Scott. Perhaps my earlier judgments had been too severe, especially when all he had ever shown was a deep affection for both me and my children.

My gaze drifted to my twins, who were practically vibrating with excitement. They beamed with pride, their little faces flushed from the joy of helping out in the kitchen. They had washed herbs and stirred bowls, but their enthusiasm had also left a trail of chaos in its wake. Flour dusted the counter like a light snowfall, herb stems lay scattered across the floor, and a small puddle of water glistened near the sink. Yet, the chef and the other two cooks merely chuckled and engaged with them, their laughter filling the kitchen with warmth rather than reprimands.

I wiped my hands on a towel and glanced at the clock, noting the time with a slight frown. “Where is Nancy?” I inquired, a hint of concern creeping into my voice.

“She went out to pick up a few things,” Ryan replied, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “She said she would be back soon.”

I nodded, satisfied for the moment. “All right, then.”

Just as I was about to settle into a moment of peace, the doorbell rang, sending a jolt of anticipation through me. Scott had arrived. The butler approached the main door, opening it with practiced grace. As I heard footsteps echoing in the hall, I straightened up by the dining table, attempting to project an air of calmness, though my heart raced in my chest. However, my smile faded abruptly when a man I did not expect stepped inside.

He was an older gentleman, his face etched with deep lines of experience, and his sharp eyes seemed to miss nothing. His mouth was set in a firm line, and his stature suggested he had once been a force to be reckoned with. There was an undeniable presence about him, one that made the staff instinctively step back. The butler bowed deeply, a gesture of respect that felt foreign to me.

“Elder Cass,” the butler announced, his voice laced with deference. “Welcome.”

Without a moment’s hesitation, Elder Cass strode into the dining room, his gaze sweeping over the table with a critical eye. When he turned to me, I felt a wave of judgment wash over me, and I took a deep breath, forcing a smile onto my face, though it felt strained.

The butler stood between us for a brief moment before he introduced me. “Elder Cass, this is Ms. Bella Williams.” He dipped his head again and then quietly exited the room. The bowing and respect were puzzling. What kind of community did these people belong to?

Elder Cass pulled out the chair at the head of the table and seated himself with an air of authority. He scrutinized the dishes once more, taking his sweet time before finally locking eyes with me. “I know who you are,” he stated flatly. His finger pointed at the spread of food. “Is this your attempt to seduce Scott?” The derision in his voice was palpable. “Do you think that by cooking four dishes and playing house, you can win him over?”

His words struck like a blow. “Excuse me, what did you just say?!” I gasped, disbelief flooding my veins.

A cold laugh escaped him, sending chills down my spine. “I’ve been observing you for quite some time,” he replied, his tone dripping with disdain. “Don’t bother pretending. You are desperately trying to charm him into marrying you. I’ve seen my fair share of gold diggers, but you, my dear, take the cake.”