Chapter 19

Maxi searched the steward's face for signs of scorn at her stuttering. But Rodrigo betrayed no such emotion as he set the silver cutlery and cup on the table. Relieved, she began to eat the food that the attendant served her. She had fallen asleep without dinner the previous night, and eating little more than coarse bread during the journey had made her ravenous.

She started with a spoonful of rich soup before proceeding to the soft, freshly baked bread, spreading it generously with butter and jam. Though she usually ate like a bird, the sight of such mouthwatering fare after days without a proper meal had given her a voracious appetite. She finished the thick soup and a slice of meat pie with relish before cleansing her palate with sweet apple cider. Even if she had not been so hungry, the food would have tasted exceptional.

"Would you care for some more, my lady?"

"I-I've had plenty, th-thank you."