Chapter 65
Before long, the father-daughter duo had commandeered the entire kitchen for their baking session. Viola would occasionally leap up in joy as she learned something new. Recently, her school had organized a field trip to a bakery where her class saw how various cookies and pastries were made, sparking her fascination and a vow to learn how to bake.
She perched on a kitchen counter, well away from the oven and stove, as her father had insisted she keep a safe distance. She observed with keen interest as he gathered all the baking supplies they would need. Outside the kitchen, the chefs, some maids, and Clara peeked through a small gap in the door, watching their employer take on a role they had never imagined for him. It was a stunning sight—one of the city’s most influential businessmen in an apron, ready to bake. No one would have believed it if they hadn’t seen it themselves. They hadn’t even expected him to marry or become a father. Seeing how he catered to the wishes of his wife and daughter showed them that even the toughest hearts could soften for loved ones.
They stayed outside, concerned that a mishap in the kitchen could lead to a fire, ready to step in if necessary. After watching several videos on how to bake cookies and a cake, Alexander began preparing.
“Daddy,” Viola’s voice called out.
Alexander looked at her, smiling. He noticed her dissatisfied pout. “What is it, sweetheart?”
“How can I learn if all I do is sit here and watch?” she pouted again.
“Oh, you’re right,” Alexander acknowledged, glancing at the items he had set out on the long kitchen island. “I’ll move everything closer to you.” He carefully relocated the ingredients and tools within her reach while ensuring she remained safe.
“I want to make cookies too,” she declared.
He put an apron on her and kissed her forehead. “Alright, let’s bake some cookies together,” he said, grinning. He gathered all the necessary ingredients and placed them on the counter beside her. She eyed the array of ingredients with excitement. With Alexander’s guidance, she started measuring flour and sugar, pouring them into a mixing bowl with precision. Alexander watched with pride as she added the ingredients, her face lighting up as the dough began to form. He handed her a bag of chocolate chips, which she eagerly sprinkled into the dough with practiced ease.
Once they finished preparing the cookies, Alexander placed them in the oven. “We need to wait for them to bake. Meanwhile, let's start on the cake,” he suggested.
“Yay!” Viola jumped up, brimming with excitement.
Alexander arranged the ingredients for the cake on the counter, smiling at her eagerness. “Alright, Viola,” he said, placing the recipe next to the ingredients. “Let’s follow the steps carefully to make the most delicious cake.” He read through the recipe with her, ensuring they understood each step. Viola nodded eagerly, her eyes fixed on the instructions. She instinctively reached for the mixing bowl, ready to dive into the baking process.
Outside the kitchen, the staff continued to watch through the door, marveling at the ease with which father and daughter were baking. “At least they seem to be doing it right,” one of them commented, and the others nodded in agreement. “I didn’t think Mr. Kane had such skills.”
“What’s going on here, and what skill are you talking about?” a familiar voice interrupted, causing them to jump in fright. “Ma’am!” they exclaimed in unison.
Lilly looked at them, puzzled. “Why are you all standing here peeking into the kitchen? Care to explain, Clara?”
She couldn’t fathom why they were spying, including the chef. She had woken up and decided to come down for a glass of water and check on Viola when she found them like this. The aroma wafting from the kitchen had caught her attention.
“Ma’am, it’s sir and Miss Viola in the kitchen baking, so we’re just staying alert in case something goes wrong,” Clara explained sincerely.
“Baking?” Lilly was taken aback. Alexander, baking?
They nodded.
“Let me see,” Lilly said.
They stepped aside to let her through. Lilly opened the door slightly and peeked inside. There, in front of her eyes, were Alexander and Viola baking together, laughing and smiling.
Lilly was astonished, her mouth agape at the sight of her husband baking. It was a beautiful moment, seeing father and daughter bond. She turned to the staff. “Does anyone have their phone with them?”
“Yes, ma’am,” Clara handed her phone to Lilly.
“Turn on the camera,” Lilly instructed.
Clara activated the camera, and Lilly took several photos of Alexander and Viola baking from different angles. Handing the phone back, she said, “Thanks, Clara. Please send these to me later.”
“Okay, ma’am,” Clara replied.
“Everyone can leave now,” Lilly said.
The staff sighed in relief and dispersed after bowing their heads. Lilly fully opened the kitchen door and walked in.
“I thought I said no one should come in here,” Alexander’s voice, now cold, greeted her. He was adding the final touches to the cake batter when he heard the door open.
Viola turned and beamed when she saw her mother. “Mommy’s awake!” She wanted to jump down to hug her but realized she couldn’t reach the floor.
Alexander looked up and smiled upon seeing Lilly.
Lilly walked over and kissed Viola. “Sweetie, you’re covered in baking stuff.”
“Yes, because I’m learning to bake!” Viola exclaimed.
“How adorable,” Lilly said, making her daughter smile.
“Mommy,” Viola called.
“Yes, darling?”
“I want us to go shopping later.”
“Shopping?” Lilly asked.
Viola nodded. “I need to get something for great-grandpa for his birthday next week.”
“That’s so thoughtful of you, sweetheart.”
“So, are we going after we finish baking?” Viola asked, eyes wide with hope.
“Yes, darling, we’ll go shopping after,” Lilly promised.
“Yay!” Viola cheered.
“You joined us to bake?” Alexander asked.
“I came for water and saw you two baking. I had no idea you had such skills,” Lilly said to Alexander.
He moved closer and kissed her lips. “I have many skills you don’t know about.”
Lilly blushed.
Viola smiled as she watched her parents’ affectionate moment. The family of three continued to enjoy their time together, baking happily.