AT THE GRIMALDI MANSION (II)

ASTRID surveyed the bountiful spread on the long table. It resembled a banquet, clearly prepared with great care. While part of him wished for a simpler meal, he refrained from mentioning it and began eating. He knew they had prepared it with him in mind and didn't want to appear ungrateful. He just hoped that the remaining food wouldn't go to waste.

"I hope that the food is to your liking," the duke suddenly said.

Astrid turned to the other and said with a polite smile, "Yes, it's very delicious."

"I think Brother Aster's cooking is still the most delicious," Nicol commented while putting the vegetables on his plate on the side.

"Nicol, eat your vegetables," Thomas said.

"Listen to your Dad, Nikki," Casey said, adding more vegetables to Nicol's plate. Then he turned to Astrid. "But Aster's cooking is truly unmatched. If you ever open a restaurant later, I'll be your number one customer."