Chapter 3919
Alonzo and Angelo weren’t the only ones anxious about Tatum’s departure; Mrs. Ormond and the others shared their worries as well. The thought of losing Tatum as their chef was unsettling. His cooking had become a cherished part of their lives, and they couldn’t fathom adjusting to meals prepared by someone else. Tinsley, however, had deeper reflections. Her eldest sister had always valued strength, and Tatum was undeniably a force—not only in the kitchen but also in the business world. He wasn’t just any chef; he was the young heir of a billionaire family, which made Tinsley see him as a perfect match for her sister. Would her eldest sister be tempted? Could she already sense the positive impact Tatum had on her life? “Eldest sister, did you drive Brother Tatum away? Why didn’t he come back with you?” Alonzo asked, his voice filled with concern as he bombarded her with questions. His worries were clear—he feared that Elora had pushed Tatum out. Tatum was not just an excellent cook; he was also enjoyable to be around. The younger brothers adored him; he was more than a chef to them—he played with them, made them laugh, and even practiced martial arts. They dreamed of learning from him. “It’s cold outside. I told Tatum to go home and rest,” Elora replied, exasperated, as she lightly poked their foreheads. “How long has Tatum been with us? It’s only been two months, and you’re acting as if he’s irreplaceable. Are you really that worried he’s going to leave?” “Sister, I like Tatum! He’s amazing. Please don’t chase him away, okay?” Alonzo pleaded.
earnestly. “When did I ever say I’d chase him away?” Elora teased, pinching his cheek with a smile. She guided her brothers back to the sofa, where they all settled in together. “I really only told him to rest. He’s a chef—once we’re full and satisfied, his job for the day is done. It’s perfectly normal for him to go home after work.” Her explanation seemed to ease their worries.
However, Alonzo wasn’t finished. “Sister, Sister Rosie told me that Brother Tatum is the young master of the York family. Their family is just like ours. Now that you know who he really is, will you still keep him as our private chef?”
Elora paused for a moment before responding calmly, “As long as I don’t tire of his cooking and he doesn’t resign, he’ll remain my private chef. You’ll still get to enjoy his food.”
The brothers cheered, “That’s great! Brother Tatum isn’t leaving!”
Elora addressed the room, “Tatum is the sixth young master of the York family from Wiltspoon. He chose to work here as a chef and knows exactly what he’s doing. This is his decision. In terms of salary and benefits, I’ve treated him fairly. He gets to pursue something he enjoys while continuing to refine his cooking skills. So, nothing is going to change—he’ll stay as long as he wants, or until I decide I’ve had enough of his food.”
Her gaze shifted to Tinsley as she continued, “Tatum mentioned something else. He came to Province X, first to Annenburg, to work as a chef, but he has another goal. His fiancée is from Province X, and he’s here to find her and build their relationship. So realistically, he’ll probably only stay with us for about half a year. His grandmother gave him a one-year deadline.”
“Food,” Alonzo exclaimed, his face lighting up with excitement. He turned to Angelo, clapping his hands as they both cheered, “That’s fantastic! Brother Tatum isn’t leaving!”
Elora addressed the room, saying, “Tatum is the sixth young master of the York family from Wiltspoon. He chose to come here to work as a chef and is well aware of what he’s doing. This is his choice.
Regarding salary and benefits, I’ve treated him fairly. He gets to do what he loves while continuing to hone his cooking skills. So, nothing will change—he’ll stay as long as he wants or until I decide I’ve had enough of his cooking.”
Her gaze shifted to Tinsley as she continued, “Tatum did mention another reason for his presence. He initially came to Province X, starting in Annenburg, to work as a chef, but he has a different goal as well. His fiancée is in Province X, and he’s here to find her and nurture their relationship.”