Chapter 2 - The Cold Truth in the KitchenRichard Aldcott frowned at his wife, his hand remaining steady on Imogen’s shoulder.

“Diane, give her a second,” Richard said softly. “She’s just a kid.”

“She’s a server on duty, Richard,” Diane corrected icy cold, taking a slow sip of her champagne. “We pay Reyes Catering premium rates so our guests don’t have to look at crying staff next to the main buffet.”

Imogen wiped her cheek with the back of her sleeve, her breath hitching as she looked up into Diane Aldcott’s stern, unyielding face.

“I’m sorry, Mrs. Aldcott,” Imogen stammered, trying desperately to compose her voice. “My mother... she’s Beatriz Reyes. I... I just got some bad news about our family.”

Diane’s eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of Beatriz. “Beatriz sent her teenage daughter to staff the biggest charity event of the year?”

“Two servers called in sick with the flu,” Imogen explained, her voice steadying through sheer grit. “My mom was desperate. She didn’t want to let you down.”

“Well, she has,” Diane said dismissively, turning toward the open doorway where the party hummed with laughter. “If this is how Reyes Catering manages emergencies, I see no reason to discuss a contract renewal next month.”

Imogen’s heart slammed into her ribs. She looked at Richard, whose face softened with genuine concern.

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“Diane, don't be hasty,” Richard warned gently. “Beatriz has catered this gala for five years. The food tonight is flawless.”

“Flawless food doesn't cover poor management, Richard,” Diane replied coldly, turning her back on Imogen. “Tell your mother she can finish the night, but she shouldn't bother submitting a proposal for January.”