Chapitre 31: Chapter 31: Under the Cherry Blossoms
Chapter 31: Under the Cherry Blossoms
This piece must hold a special meaning for her, Julian Reed thought, which is why her performance was so captivating, pulling everyone in, urging them to experience the emotions woven into each note. The music she played seemed to come alive under her touch, effortlessly stirring the hearts of those who listened.
Julian lowered his gaze to the new member list, carefully writing down Lydia Moore's name. He then looked up at her, his eyes sincere as he said, "Congratulations, you've been accepted. I'm looking forward to working with you." His laughter was warm and uplifting, like the first rays of morning sun, carrying with it a gentle, refreshing energy.
Lydia Moore had succeeded. A wave of surprise and joy washed over her as she looked up at Julian, returning his smile with one of her own. Her eyes remained clear, and her demeanor calm. Outside, the yellow and white chrysanthemums contrasted beautifully with the blue sky and white clouds—a picturesque autumn day in Sakura.
The streets were bustling, with large, fluffy clouds drifting across the sky. Outside the "Fairy Cake Shop," the chrysanthemums and roses were in full bloom, their vibrant colors accompanied by the playful dance of dandelion seeds in the air. The fluffy white tufts landed on the heads and shoulders of passersby, adding a touch of whimsy to their day.
Inside the cake shop, the atmosphere was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods and the sound of cheerful conversations. The shop was packed with customers, all enjoying their cakes with smiles on their faces, their laughter ringing through the air. Despite the busy scene, Lydia's aunt and uncle, who were bustling between tables, serving guests, managed to keep smiles on their faces, their eyes shining with happiness.
In the kitchen, the red light on the oven switched to green. Aaron King, wearing a thick oven mitt on one hand, pulled out the steaming cake and placed it on the counter. With an annoyed glance at Lydia, he tossed the mitt aside, clearly frustrated. D*mn it! Was she trying to mess with him? He'd been learning how to bake for ten days now, and all he'd managed to make was this basic cake layer. His patience was wearing thin.
Lydia took the white porcelain plate, decorated with red strawberries along the edge, and slowly turned it, carefully examining the cake Aaron had made. She looked at the disgruntled expression on his face, then back at the cake, which bore several scorched spots and could barely be called a cake. Finally, she tilted her head in thought, her brows furrowing.
Was he really putting any effort into this? She had tried her best, explaining every step in detail—from selecting the ingredients, measuring them precisely, mastering key techniques, to setting the perfect baking time. Yet, this was the result? She was at a loss for words.
Growing impatient with her silence, Aaron snapped at her, "Why are you staring at it like that without saying anything? This is the first cake I've ever made, and that's the reaction I get?" His tone was harsh, but there was an undercurrent of nervousness and a hint of childish insecurity.
His handsome face flushed slightly, whether from anger at her reaction or embarrassment over his failed attempt. Furious, he grabbed the plate with the pitiful cake, ready to toss it into the trash, but Lydia quickly grabbed his arm to stop him, a fleeting confusion in his eyes.
Lydia clung to his arm like a monkey, her bright smile shining like a diamond, her tone full of genuine remorse. "I'm sorry! I just had a little brain freeze, that's all… Please forgive me…" She knew her reaction must have hurt Aaron's pride. For him to take the initiative to learn how to bake, the cake must hold significant meaning for him. She shouldn't have made him feel disappointed and upset.
Taking advantage of Aaron's momentary distraction, Lydia took the cake from his hands and brought it to her nose, taking a deep breath as she exaggeratedly inhaled its aroma. "Even though it looks a bit rough around the edges, it smells amazing. I bet it tastes great too. I can't wait to try it." Her smile was genuine, revealing two cute little canine teeth.
Her playful and eager expression softened Aaron's previously cold demeanor. A faint, warm smile appeared on his lips, and for a brief moment, he thought that her ordinary face didn't seem so annoying anymore. Instead, it felt natural and unpretentious, like the clean, fresh scent of mint.
Under Aaron's watchful gaze, Lydia cut a small piece of the cake and placed it in her mouth. The strange taste tingled her taste buds, but she continued to chew thoughtfully, savoring every bite.
"Idiot…" Aaron muttered under his breath, but his eyes never left her face. His dark pupils narrowed, reflecting a slight tension and anticipation. His throat bobbed as he swallowed, and his gaze, unguarded and honest, was like that of a child longing for approval.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone