Biltmore Estate Kitchen, 1907
Gevherriz smiled and pointed to the counter. "How about the Linzertorte? It's a delightful choice with its rich almond flavor and tangy raspberry filling. I think you'll really enjoy it."
Lyanna's eyes lit up with excitement. "I would love to try it!" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious. The thought of indulging in such a delectable dessert filled her with anticipation.
When William heard about the Linzertorte, his eyes glowed with anticipation. "I would love to try it!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious. The thought of indulging in such a delectable dessert filled him with anticipation. The warm aroma of baked almonds and sweet raspberries wafted through the kitchen, making his mouth water. He could already imagine the first bite, the buttery crust giving way to the luscious filling. It was a moment he had been waiting for, and he could hardly contain his eagerness.
Joren then says, "Shall we eat it?"
Everyone present nodded their heads and said, "Yes!" The excitement in the room was palpable as they shared in Joren's enthusiasm for the delectable dessert. It was a moment they all cherished, and together, they eagerly prepared to enjoy the treat.
Then everyone began to eat the Linzertorte, taking their first bites as the buttery crust gave way to the luscious filling.
Lyanna, savoring her first taste, exclaimed, "This tastes fantastic!" Her delight was mirrored in the smiles of those around her, each one relishing the rich flavors that danced on their tongues. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy, making the occasion even more special.
William nodded enthusiastically at Lyanna's statement, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "I entirely agree! This dish is absolutely delicious!" he exclaimed, taking another bite of the Linzertorte. The buttery crust and luscious filling were a hit with everyone, and he could see that the shared enjoyment brought them all closer together. The laughter and joy in the air only heightened the experience, making the moment unforgettable.
Gevherriz smiled and nodded in agreement with Lyanna's statement, feeling the same sense of delight that filled the room. "Absolutely, Lyanna! The flavors are just incredible," she chimed in, her enthusiasm matching William's. She took a moment to savor another piece of the Linzertorte, appreciating the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The warmth of camaraderie enveloped them, and he couldn't help but feel grateful for the shared experience. The laughter and joy only served to strengthen their bonds, making the occasion truly memorable.
Lyanna then added, "The chefs really do a fantastic job making the food! Each dish is so well prepared and flavorful." Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she spoke.
William nodded in agreement, feeling the same sense of delight that filled the room. "Absolutely, Lyanna! The chefs here on the estate do a fantastic job at making delicious food," he chimed in, his excitement mirroring hers.
The others in the room smiled and nodded, affirming their shared appreciation for the culinary delights they were experiencing. Each person felt a sense of camaraderie, united by their enjoyment of the meal and the warm atmosphere it created.
Joren glanced at the clock on the wall and suddenly realized how late it was getting. He felt a pang of urgency amidst the delightful conversation. "I hate to interrupt, but we should probably start wrapping things up," he said, his voice tinged with regret.
The lively chatter around the table began to subside as the others noticed his expression.
Lyanna, still beaming from the meal, nodded in agreement. "You're right, Joren. It's been such a wonderful evening, but I'm sure all of you have to get going soon." The camaraderie they had shared was palpable, yet the reality of the time brought them back to the present. Each person felt a mixture of contentment and reluctance as they prepared to leave the warmth of the gathering behind.
Everyone nodded their heads in agreement.
William then said, "I'll escort Joren, Luthor, Gevherriz, and Şadiye outside."
Lyanna nodded her head and said, "I'm going to turn in for the evening."
The others murmured their goodbyes, appreciating the warmth of the moment they had shared. As William prepared to escort Joren, Luthor, Gevherriz, and Şadiye outside, the atmosphere shifted slightly. It was a gentle reminder that all good things must come to an end. The camaraderie lingered in the air, but the reality of the night's end was undeniable. Each person felt the weight of the evening as they gathered their things and made their way to the door, cherishing the memories they had created together.
As William stood by the door, ready to bid farewell to his friends, he turned to Lyanna, a soft smile gracing his face. "Good night, Lyanna," he said warmly, his voice carrying a hint of sincerity. "I hope you have sweet dreams." He paused for a moment, his gaze lingering on her, appreciating the connection they had shared that evening.
As he turned to leave, he caught a faint blush on her cheeks, a sign that she felt the same warmth in her heart. "Thank you, William," she replied softly, her eyes sparkling with unspoken emotions. "I'll be dreaming of you tonight."
William smiled at her words, the warmth in his heart growing. "Same here," he replied, his voice steady yet gentle. He took one last look at her before stepping away, the moment lingering in the air like a sweet melody. As he walked away, he felt a sense of hope, knowing that their connection was something special, something to cherish.
Lyanna turned and made her way to her bedchamber, her heart fluttering with the memory of William's smile. The hallway was dimly lit, the flickering candles casting soft shadows on the walls. She could still hear his voice in her mind, the gentle reassurance of his words echoing like a comforting lullaby.
As she entered her chamber, she closed the door softly behind her, sealing away the world outside. The room was cozy, adorned with rich tapestries and a large bed draped in fine linens. She moved to the window, gazing out at the stars twinkling in the night sky, each one a reminder of the promise they had shared.
Lyanna felt a wave of emotions wash over her—excitement, hope, and a tinge of nervousness. She knew that this connection with William was unlike anything she had experienced before. With a soft sigh, she prepared for bed, allowing her thoughts of him to fill her mind.