The Billionaire's True Heiress From Fake Jewel to Real Crown novel Chapter 35

She had meant to fill Claire in, but since Claire loved a good surprise, Jennifer decided to let her have it her way.

Because they were special guests, the food came out fast. The first course was dessert—chrysanthemum pastries. Jennifer’s senior apprentice had made them, layering the pastry so delicately that each one looked like a real flower in full bloom. There was even a spot of homemade blueberry jam in the center, making them look just like lush, double-petaled chrysanthemums. It was a fresh take on the classic recipe, so pretty that nobody wanted to mess them up.

The second dish showed up right after. This time, it was walnut fish rolls, made by one of Jennifer’s students.

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For the grand finale, Jennifer herself brought out her signature dish: Birds Flocking to the Phoenix. She used a whole chicken to form the phoenix, hiding all sorts of flavors inside, and surrounded it with little birds shaped out of dough, each one so cute it almost felt wrong to eat them. The moment the dish landed on the table, it became the instant star. Its aroma filled the whole room and made every other plate fade into the background.

“Every bit as impressive as ever,” Pandora said, looking pleased. “This dish just takes over the whole table.”

The recipe was a tradition in the White family. Jennifer smiled and offered some to Pandora, using serving chopsticks to place it gently on her plate.

Pandora might have looked like any ordinary country grandma, but she carried herself with such quiet grace that her simple clothes seemed suddenly elegant. She tasted the dish, gave a thoughtful nod, and said, “You’ve really captured your father’s touch.”

Jennifer beamed. “If my dad heard you say that, he’d be so proud.”

Claire couldn’t wait any longer and started digging in, with Dane following right behind. Jennifer settled in next to Pandora and struck up a quiet conversation.

“My father handed Hearth & Kettle over to you so early,” Pandora said. “Where did he go to enjoy his retirement?”

She hadn’t heard anything about Daniel passing away, which meant he must still be around.

At that, Jennifer let out a sigh. “Pandora, actually, I have a favor to ask.”

Bone cancer. Pandora’s face changed. Before she could say anything, a loud noise came from outside.

Jennifer glanced at the restaurant manager, who quickly said, “I’ll go check it out.”

The manager stepped out and found a small crowd gathered outside one of the private rooms. A woman was yelling at a server.

“My friend got sick eating here! There’s something wrong with your food!”

“If you don’t give us an answer today, we’re calling the police!”

The manager stepped in. “Please, let’s not jump to conclusions. I’m the manager. Whatever the problem is, we can talk it through.”