SINISTER HEARTS

CHAPTER 16

Olivia's acceptance of her circumstances brought a sense of peace amid the turmoil within her. Day by day, she found comfort in the routine of life within the mansion, especially in the familiar tasks that occupied her time.

Weeks passed, and Olivia found solace in the rhythm of the household, particularly in the kitchen. There, amidst the warmth of the stove and the inviting scents that filled the air, she sought refuge from the shadows that threatened to engulf her.

With practiced skill, Olivia prepared meals fit for royalty, pouring her heart into each dish she created. Cooking became her sanctuary, a source of healing for the wounds that still lingered beneath the surface.

Yet, despite her outward composure, a palpable tension hung in the air, a constant reminder of the power Ryouji held over her fragile existence.

In the quiet moments of the night, Ryouji wrestled with the ghosts of his past, haunted by memories of the pain he had inflicted upon Olivia. Guilt gnawed at his conscience, a relentless reminder of the darkness lurking within him.

But amidst his inner turmoil, a voice urged him to embrace the ruthless nature that defined his world. In a realm where weakness invited destruction, Ryouji struggled to maintain his facade of strength.

One evening, drawn by the aroma of Olivia's cooking, Ryouji found himself in the kitchen, his gaze meeting hers in a silent exchange of understanding.

"Olivia," Ryouji's voice rumbled softly, his tone devoid of apology. "You seem to be busy."Olivia met his gaze with quiet determination, her hands moving deftly as she tended to the dishes on the stove. "Just fulfilling my duties, Sir," she replied evenly, her voice betraying none of the emotions swirling within her.

Ryouji's expression darkened as he observed the scars that marred Olivia's skin, a silent testament to the pain she had endured. "I cannot undo what has been done," he conceded, his voice tinged with bitterness. "But I cannot afford to show weakness."

Olivia's gaze softened with empathy, her voice gentle yet firm. "We are all captives of our choices, Sir," she remarked softly. "But we need not be prisoners of our past. We can choose to rise above the darkness."

For a moment, silence hung heavy in the air, the weight of their unspoken words palpable. In the flickering light of the kitchen, "Your cooking is exquisite, Olivia," Ryouji remarked, his voice carrying a rare note of sincerity. "I must admit, it's a welcome change from the usual fare."

Olivia paused, her gaze meeting his with a mixture of surprise and cautious optimism. "Thank you," she replied, a hint of warmth creeping into her voice despite her reservations.

As the fragrant aromas enveloped the kitchen, Ryouji's tense demeanor softened slightly, replaced by a faint hint of appreciation for Olivia's culinary skills. He watched her move with a graceful fluidity, her hands expertly maneuvering pots and pans with a precision that spoke volumes of her dedication.
"From now on you will only cook for me, Olivia," Ryouji ordered, his tone determined. Olivia's brows furrowed in confusion, her eyes narrowing with uncertainty. "Exclusively?" she echoed, her voice tinged with skepticism.

Ryouji nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yes, exclusively," he affirmed, his words carrying a weight that belied their simplicity. "Your cooking...it brings a sense of...normalcy to this place. and I believe it's only fitting that I should have the privilege of enjoying it firsthand."

with that Ryouji left the kitchen and went towards her office and Olivia was dumbfounded with what Ryouji just said she was at content at heart that the devil likes his food with a small smile of satisfaction Olivia again started her preparation for dinner.