chapter 74

The kitchen in a warm, golden hue as Aleena, her tousled hair still slightly damp from her shower, descended the stairs and made her way to the heart of the house. The smell of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the promise of a delicious breakfast. Her footsteps were light, a reflection of the peacefulness that accompanied the early hours.

Aleena entered the kitchen with a soft smile, her eyes drawn to the array of ingredients neatly arranged on the granite countertop. The rhythmic clinks and clatters of pots and pans greeted her ears as she opened the refrigerator, choosing eggs, cheese, and vegetables for an omelette. Whistling a gentle tune, she set about her culinary canvas, cracking eggs into a bowl and slicing peppers with a practiced hand.

In the midst of her breakfast preparations, a shadow suddenly fell across the kitchen. Aleena turned, her smile still lingering, to find Kanika standing in the doorway. Her expression was stern, her eyes narrowed, and her arms crossed tightl