After bringing Maddy back to their former home, Julian Thorne tied a black apron around his lean waist. His slender, practiced hands ignited the stove, and soon, a tantalizing aroma filled the entire apartment.In the living room, Maddy swallowed hard as she watched television. She quickly slipped on her little slippers and hurried into the kitchen. "Uncle Julian, what are you cooking?"Julian glanced at the array of prepared ingredients, a slight smile playing on his thin lips. "Braised crawfish, spicy crab, baby cabbage in broth, and poached sliced pork.""Those are all the things Mommy and I love to eat!" Maddy exclaimed happily, before adding in a small, worried whisper, "Are you sure Mommy will definitely come back?""Of course." Julian’s lips curled. He was certain because he held her greatest weakness in his hands.The Unanswered CallHalf an hour passed as the dishes were set upon the table, but Sarah Vance was nowhere to be seen. Maddy, already seated at the table, rested her
Last Updated : 2026-05-13 Read more