Love at First Novel

Chapter 3667

Angelo felt upset after Alonzo kicked him under the table but didn’t say anything, though his expression showed his frustration. He wanted to study, but Elora was far stricter than their teachers, and even the elders in the family didn’t challenge her, so neither could they. Alonzo, feeling both sad and frustrated, turned to food for comfort. He ate a lot at lunch, and it was only when Elora worried that he was overeating that she made him stop—he really might have eaten too much. He secretly hoped that if he was too full, he wouldn’t have to do his homework. After lunch, Elora spoke to Tatum, “Tatum, after your break, can you make some snacks for Alonzo and the others? Also, leave some for Tinsley—she loves your snacks the most. I won’t be back for dinner tonight, so feel free to plan your evening as you like.” She added, “By the way, about the New Year holiday—do you mind working during that time? I can offer you five times your usual salary, plus holiday gifts and red envelopes.” Elora knew that New Year was the most relaxing time for her and didn’t want to worry about meals. She hoped Tatum would stay and work through the holiday, but she was willing to compensate him generously for it. Tatum looked at her kindly. Elora noticed his gaze and felt like there was something more behind it, but she couldn’t quite understand what. She shook off the thought, assuming Tatum admired her—after all, he looked at everyone the same way, except when talking about cooking. His passion for food was the only thing that truly lit up his eyes. Elora silently scolded herself for overthinking. Tatum softly replied, “My grandmother is quite old, and she looks forward to having the family together for New Year. It’s a big deal for her.” He gently explained that his grandmother was expecting him to come home, making it hard for him to give up his holiday time. Elora pressed her lips together and thought for a moment. “Brother Tatum, if you’re going home for New Year, can I come with you?” Angelo asked. “I heard from Alonzo that it’s warmer there. I don’t want to be cold during the holiday!”

“And me! I want to go too!” Alonzo chimed in. Mrs. Ormond almost asked if she could join as well, but she hesitated and held back. Instead, she quickly thought of another idea and suggested to Elora, “Elora, we haven’t traveled as a family in a long time, and I’ve never been to Wiltspoon. How about we go there for a New Year trip? I’ve heard the food is great, and it’s much warmer—about ten degrees warmer than here. It would be so comfortable for us.” Tatum smiled and offered, “If you and Miss Elora visit Wiltspoon, I’d be happy to be your tour guide. I can take care of your meals, lodging, and transportation. I also have several restaurants there— you should come and try my Wiltspoon specialties.” However, if Elora did go to Wiltspoon, it might reveal Tatum’s real identity. He hadn’t tried to hide it, but he hadn’t been completely open about it either. Tatum was the sixth young master of the wealthiest family in Wiltspoon. Elora had tried to look into him twice but didn’t find out the truth because his brother, Zachary, had helped keep it hidden. Since Tatum was working as a chef, Elora didn’t dig any deeper. Elora then said, “Traveling can be exhausting. I’d rather rest for a few days than go on a long trip. How old is your grandmother, Tatum? How’s her health? Is she okay to fly? I could book round-trip tickets and a hotel for your family, and you could pick them up.” NôvelD(ram)a.ôrg owns this content.