Ariana POV
She offered the king and queen a gentle smile over the vichyssoise. "This dinner is exquisite."
King Lothair barely touched the cold potato soup, but Queen Violette ate every spoonful. "I'm so glad you like vichyssoise," Queen Violette said enthusiastically. "You can see it's not my husband's favorite."
"I love it, but I've never had it like this," Ariana gushed.
Aunt Sally shot her a worried gaze. "You used to enjoy the one at our favorite restaurant at home. And you like the one Elina makes."
"Yes, of course." Ariana shot an apologetic gaze at Elina. "Sorry."
Elina licked the spoon. "It is quite good. That being said, no offense intended, I'm partial to my own recipe. Your Highnesses."
Queen Violette, the very picture of class and grace, responded, "Of course, Elina. Why wouldn't a cook prefer her own creations?"
