Deep in the night, the kitchen was pitch black. The normally silent space was filled with the sound of running water washing ingredients, accompanied by the chef's cheerful humming.
Barty Jr. was a deft chef, and no subtle reaction from his ingredients could escape his palms. Just like now, the wild cherries he repeatedly rinsed grew even rosier and more appetizing. Plucking one to taste, he found the flesh sweet and elastic, a favorite of Barty Jr.'s.
The cherry tree protested, swatting at Barty Jr.'s head, only to be ruthlessly denied and forced to yield even more. The sorrowful cherry tree let out sobs, its trunk trembling as it tried in vain to escape.
Chapter 420