The scent of butter melting on the pan blended with the aroma of toast turning golden in the toaster. Sunlight streamed in from the side window, falling directly onto the kitchen table and brushing against Valerie's back as she stood facing away from the door.
Her hands moved skillfully, flipping the eggs, then reaching for the spatula without needing to look. Her movements were calm, rhythmic, as if this wasn't the first time she had done something like this.
Even though not long ago, something as simple as having breakfast together felt… impossible.
The sound of footsteps approached.
Valerie didn't turn around.
She already knew.
Two seconds later, someone stopped right behind her. Not too close, but close enough to make his presence felt.
"Smells good."
Leo's voice was low, still slightly husky from just waking up.
Valerie smiled faintly without turning. "You just woke up?"
"Hmm."
A pause.
