113

LINDEN

It was still surreal watching my father talking with Gustav. I didn’t think it would happen sooner, but looking at them getting along was fulfilling for me and Estelle.

“You okay?” Estelle placed her hand on my thigh under the table.

“Yeah. You?” I didn’t have to ask because I saw it in her eyes. She looked happy. This must have been her dream for a long time, not seeing her parents at each other’s throats.

Willa gave me a questioning look, sitting next to Dad.

I slightly shook my head and smiled.

“I’ve been to many restaurants, but your food has a distinct taste that I didn’t find anywhere. What’s the secret? Am I allowed to ask it?”

Dad chuckled. “It’s all the same. The ingredients we choose but how we prepare and cook are different.”

“I also try cooking at home if I have time, but not as close to good as this. Edible, though,” Gustav said.

“I can’t cook anything fancy, but I know a few pasta recipes. I just don’t have time, I guess.” Deirdre also enjoyed the menu.