Two weeks had passed since that fateful night in the kitchen. I still felt a surge of heat in my cheeks whenever I thought about it.
Two weeks I had been living in the castle of the demon queen, along with Lise and Yumi, who had become my best friends. They were always there to cheer me up, make me laugh, and keep me company.
They also helped me with my cooking, which was much appreciated by the chefs, who often asked me for advice on how to improve their dishes. But despite my efforts, the food was still bland and boring, and I wondered if it was because of the ingredients, or the lack of spice.
My relationship with Zephara had become strained and awkward. She barely spoke to me, and only came to see me when she wanted me to cook something for her. As soon as I served her, she would tell me to leave the kitchen, without even a thank you or a smile. She seemed cold and distant, and I didn't know how to break the ice.