The following morning, Ruelle woke earlier than usual.
The kitchen was quiet when she entered it and she had the space to herself, as Maude was on outdoor duties. Right now, her fingers were dusted with flour and she mixed the cake's batter in the bowl. She had baked several times in the past and her skills in the kitchen were something she counted on.
She had tried to find out through Peyton on Lucian's schedule for the day and apart from meeting Minister Gaile, he would be off work by the hour of noon. She had planned the day to begin with family breakfast and then have lunch with him alone. Then a visit to Lady Irina's grave together.
And then—if he wanted—they would go out to hunt. She had heard it was popular for vampires of the higher class to do so.
When the batter was smooth and golden, Ruelle poured it into the prepared pan and slid it into the fire with sand beneath it.
