Alexa tied her apron neatly and began to cook, humming softly to herself as the rich aroma of herbs and simmering sauce filled the air.
The sound of sizzling olive oil and the rhythmic clatter of utensils gave the quiet house a comforting warmth.
For once, she wasn't thinking about work or responsibilities—only the simple, almost childish joy of preparing a meal with her own hands.
By the time the food was done, the table was set neatly, candles flickering softly at its center.
Alexa looked around the dining room, satisfied, and waited for her family to return.
Russell was the first to arrive. The sound of the front door opening pulled Alexa from her thoughts.
"Hi, dear!" he called from the entryway. "Hmm… something smells good!"
He walked toward the kitchen, unbuttoning the top of his shirt after a long day's work, but the moment he saw her, he froze mid-step.
Alexa turned to greet him with a smile—and for a brief moment, Russell forgot how to speak.
