The Runaway Groom

After Vivian laid out all the food on the table, she got a bowl from the kitchen and poured in the chicken soup herself, saying, “I ordered the chicken myself from a farm. It's the type fed with proper grains and never locked in coops. Chickens reared like that are the best! Some of it was used at the cafeteria, but since you didn't eat, the soup has cooled, so I made another bowl for you after I got home! Also, I saw the beef from the nearby market looked fresh, so I cooked it too. Why don't you try and see if you like it?"

Zachary took a seat as Vivian continued to fawn over him, looking neutral and accepting of everything she was doing.

He actually felt repulsed but did not show it.

Instead, he subtly glanced at Lulu, who stood there, unmoved.

Feeling a little frustrated just then, he turned coolly toward the finely cut beef which was stir-fried with peppers. It was steaming since it was just cooked and looked perfectly fine, but Zachary simply did not feel an appetite!

glanced at Lulu as she was completely focused on Zachary. She

mackerel is more homely—I've even added saffron that would nourish

just then, unable to pretend

his intention to probe Lulu. Closing his eyes, he tried to play it cool or at least not appear upset. "And this!" Vivian continued to introduce the food excitedly, seemingly not noticing Zachary's disgust. "Chicken legs that I marinated for days. The flavor is perfect without being too spicy, and you'd probably like it!" Zachary merely felt sick looking at the greasy gleam of the chicken legs, while Vivian revealed a pot of stewed pork and grilled eggplants. Seeing that he was not moving,

turned toward them but quickly

chase Vivian out but started

were on Lulu, lying even though he did not like it. "It's not greasy,

then. "You're amazing, Mr. Slate. I only added a little sugar in there, but

to