Chapter 38: Unexpected Visitors

As Caleb left me in the kitchen to tend to the meal, my thoughts swirled with uncertainty. Charles had already disappeared into the living room, leaving me alone with the daunting task of preparing a meal for an unexpected gathering. The clatter of pots and pans echoed my racing heartbeat as I pondered over my place in Caleb’s life.

Does he love me? The question lingered like a stubborn shadow. Had he ever uttered those words to me? I couldn’t recall, and the uncertainty gnawed at my insides as I mechanically cleaned the shrimp, trying to distract myself from the whirlwind of emotions.

Outside, the sounds of boisterous laughter reached me through the kitchen window, drawing my gaze. I peered out to see six men arriving, their camaraderie evident in their easy banter and hearty laughs. It was a rare sight—Caleb seldom had visitors, let alone a group of six.

Turning off the stove, I hesitated for a moment, debating whether to join them or retreat to the solace of the kitchen. Before I c