Love at First Novel by Gu Lingfei

"Well, I'm back—and I had a midnight snack," Elora said, glancing at her mother's expression. She could tell right away-her mother had seen her and Tatum hugging.

After a brief silence, she decided to speak first.

"Mom."

"Elora."

They spoke at the same time, then fell silent again.

"You go first, Mom." Elora stepped closer. "You're clearly not sleepy yet. Come to my room- we can have a mother-daughter chat."

That way, they wouldn't disturb her father and brother.

Mrs. Ormond followed her daughter into the bedroom.

She rarely entered Elora's space. Ever since Elora started junior high, she had made it a point not to go into her daughter's room without permission.

As her children grew, they needed their own privacy, and she respected that.

Elora asked, noticing her mother's hesitation. She motioned for her to

back from a business trip. Why don't you take a hot bath first? I'll sit here for a bit, and

time to process what

wonderful man, and his cooking was exceptional-so exceptional that Elora hadn't

arrangement would only last for a short period, thinking that Tatum was simply doing

to Elora, but she hadn't thought too much of

toward Tatum hadn't concerned her either. After all, Tatum wasn't just any chef-he was the sixth young master of

admired capable, successful individuals. It was only natural that her attitude toward Tatum had

hadn't expected sparks to

of Elora's future, often arranging introductions to outstanding young men

had no idea what kind of man her

on relationships. Her priority was managing

family's circumstances, and the fact

Mrs. Ormond

was, however, particular about her

wealth and power made them a target. If Elora

an unhappy marriage, but she could also be manipulated, leading to devastating consequences

the business, the risk of outsiders gaining control was a