Chapter 8 - A Seat at the Table
Lily’s face lit up with a warm, beautiful smile. “Right away, Mr. Calder. Two bowls of soup coming right up.”
As Lily turned toward the kitchen, Thomas Calder reached out and gently touched her wrist, stopping her for a brief second.
“Young lady,” Thomas said, his pale blue eyes twinkling with gratitude. “You stood up for a stranger when it could have cost you your livelihood. That takes real courage.”
“My mother always taught me that kindness doesn't cost a dime, sir,” Lily replied softly. “Everyone deserves respect.”
Julian watched Lily walk toward the kitchen doors, admiring not just her beauty, but her unwavering moral spine. In a world full of superficial, status-obsessed people like Vanessa Price, Lily stood out like a pure beacon of light.
Fifteen minutes later, Lily returned to the table carrying a silver tray with two fresh, steaming bowls of chicken soup, freshly baked bread, and warm tea.
She placed the bowls down with careful precision, ensuring both father and son were served with the highest standard of care.
As Julian took his first spoon of soup, he looked up at Lily, who was standing respectfully nearby, ready to assist other tables.
“Lily,” Julian said, setting his spoon down. “How long have you worked at The Meridian Room?”
May you like
“About six months, Mr. Calder,” Lily answered honestly. “I work here at night to pay for my final year of business school during the day.”
👉 Julian nodded slowly, an intriguing idea forming in his mind.
