The day before the new year was surprisingly sunny with a clear blue sky.
Inside the Palmer house, warmth bloomed from every corner. The windows had fogged from the heat of the kitchen, and the scent of garlic, herbs, and steaming broth drifted through the hallway. Ida stood firmly at the centre of it all, sleeves rolled up, apron dusted with flour, presiding over her annual feast.
The most important dish sat proudly on the counter: stuffed fish. It was their family tradition. Ida said the fish symbolised abundance and togetherness, that the filling hidden inside meant blessings layered within blessings. No one dared skip it.
Micah had tried to help at first.
