Chapter 6

After tidying up, for the first time, Amelia sat down with Flora and Ethan in the dining room. The three of them gathered to enjoy the dinner that had been prepared.

Even though Flora tried hard to break the ice, it still felt awkward. Ethan remained mostly silent. When Flora asked him something, he would only give brief replies.

"Honey, do you want more?" Flora offered when she saw Ethan nearly finished with his dinner.

"No, thanks."

"Why are you eating so little today? Not feeling well, or what's going on? I cooked a lot for you and Amelia."

"I'm already full, sweetheart," Ethan replied gently.

After finishing his food and drink, Ethan got up from his seat. He seemed ready to leave the dining room immediately. This prompted Flora to ask her husband another question.

"So, where are you going now? Why are you in such a hurry?"

"I'm going to the study. There are some things I need to work on."

Without waiting for Flora's response, Ethan approached his wife and kissed her forehead. Once Ethan was completely out of sight, Flora turned her focus to Amelia, who was still enjoying her dinner. A moment later, Flora, with her brown eyes, invited her friend to chat.

"Amelia, do you want some more? Don't hesitate or feel uncomfortable. Relax, this is your home now too."

Amelia, who was enjoying the spicy chicken on her plate, looked up. She gave a slight smile while thinking about what Flora had said.

She knew her status had changed to Mrs. Ethan, but as a new resident and member of the household, she couldn't just instantly feel comfortable. She thought it would take days to adjust to her new home.

"I really can't eat that much," Amelia replied softly.

"I thought that habit would have changed," Flora remarked. "Even back in college, you ate very little. But anyway, since I know you love cooking and baking, feel free to use the kitchen as much as you want. All the ingredients are available in the fridge and pantry. Plus, there's a housemaid out back who can help you."

Amelia nodded. What Flora said was true. She did love cooking and especially baking. And now, being given the freedom to explore her hobby and skills, Amelia felt very happy.

"Yeah, thanks. Next time, I'd like to cook for everyone in this house."

"Sure, that would be great. I haven't eaten your cooking in years. The last time was back in college when you made me biryani rice and vanilla brownies for my birthday."

Amelia laughed. It turned out Flora hadn't forgotten what she did all those years ago.

"If you want, I can make that menu for you again sometime."

"Of course, I want that. Your cooking never disappoints," Flora replied.

After finishing dinner and chatting for a while, Amelia decided to return to her room to perform the Isha prayer.

Not knowing what else to do that evening, once she finished praying, Amelia decided to head back to the kitchen. She had a habit of drinking water or milk before bed.

However, when she opened the bedroom door intending to step out, her eyes caught a scene she shouldn't have seen. Whatever was happening, Amelia unintentionally witnessed Flora and Ethan embracing and even sharing a passionate kiss.

If Amelia had known what was going on outside her room, she would have chosen not to step out. Feeling embarrassed and awkward, she decided to step back and quietly return to her room.

Unfortunately, Flora noticed her first. Flora called out, "Amelia, wait!"

Amelia stopped in her tracks. Awkwardly, she turned around and gave Flora an uneasy smile.

"Flora, I'm sorry. I was just going to the kitchen to get a drink. I swear, I didn't mean to see ---"

"Amelia..." Flora interrupted. "Why are you apologizing? I should be the one apologizing. I'm sure you felt uncomfortable with what you just saw. We should have been more considerate about where we were getting affectionate."

"No, I'm fine," Amelia assured. Honestly, she was the one feeling awkward.

Flora nodded. Glancing at Ethan, who had been standing quietly behind her, she pulled her husband and gently pushed him towards Amelia's room.

"It's late. You two should rest. And just to remind you, tonight and tomorrow night, Ethan is scheduled to sleep in your room, Amelia."

Before Amelia could respond, Flora guided her into the room. Before closing the door, she smiled and whispered to them both, "Enjoy your wedding night."

Once the door was closed, Amelia walked over to the bed and sat down. Meanwhile, Ethan removed the shirt he was wearing and placed it on the sofa, leaving only a casual t-shirt and pants, which he didn't seem inclined to change.

"Are you going to sleep on the sofa again?" Amelia asked, mustering the courage to speak. She started the conversation to break the silence and tension.

"Yes," Ethan replied, nodding. He walked over to the bed and took one of the pillows that were neatly arranged. "Like I said before, I'm just not ready yet."

"I know," Amelia replied quickly. "But if it's just sleeping, you don't need to go through the trouble of sleeping on the sofa."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, you can sleep in the bed comfortably without having to do anything. Besides, it's not a sin for a husband and wife to sleep in the same bed, right?"

Amelia understood and didn't mind that Ethan needed time to adjust to her presence. However, she felt sorry seeing her husband sleeping uncomfortably in the same room.

Besides, what she had said earlier was true. If it was just sleeping, what was the harm in sharing the same bed?

"Yes, you're right. It's not a sin for us to sleep in the same place. But for now, please let me take my time to adjust."

"Okay."

Not wanting to argue with Ethan, Amelia once again allowed her husband to sleep on the sofa that night. She wondered how long it would take for him to get used to and accept her presence.