Chapter 41

Chapter 41


The morning sun streamed in through the large kitchen windows, casting soft golden hues across the polished countertops. The kitchen was quiet, except for the gentle clinking of utensils and the low sizzle of something frying on the stove.

Annabel sat at the edge of the kitchen table, her hands wrapped around a warm mug of water. She hadn’t said much since waking up, but she had walked in on her own today. That, in itself, was something.

Katarina moved around the kitchen with a quiet rhythm, focused and calm. Her long sleeves were rolled up to her elbows, and a light apron was tied around her waist. She was chopping some vegetables while a pot of porridge gently bubbled on the stove.

"Let me know if the smell bothers you," she said softly, not turning around.

Annabel didn’t respond right away. She looked around the room. It was cozy. A bowl of fresh fruits sat in the center of the table, and a vase of new flowers had replaced the ones from her bedroom.

"It doesn’t," she finally whispered.

Katarina smiled faintly and continued chopping. The rhythm of the knife was oddly soothing.

Annabel’s eyes followed the movement of Katarina’s hands. She watched her measure out spices, stir gently, wipe the counter after every few motions. There was something grounding about watching someone do something so ordinary with care.

A few minutes passed in silence.

"Is that ginger?" Annabel asked quietly, tilting her head toward the pot.

Katarina turned slightly, surprised but pleased to hear her speak again. "Yes. Ginger, honey, and a bit of lemon. It helps with nausea and boosts strength. You’ll like it."

Annabel gave a small nod.

Katarina tasted the porridge with a wooden spoon, then adjusted the heat. She began slicing some soft bread and placed it into the toaster.

"Would you like it with or without butter?" she asked.

Annabel thought for a moment. "Without, please."

Katarina nodded and smiled. She was just glad Annabel was making choices again.

The soft ticking of the wall clock filled the silence that followed. Annabel’s fingers traced the rim of her mug.

"You’re good at this," she murmured suddenly.

"Hmm?"

"Cooking. Moving around like this. It’s... peaceful to watch."

Katarina let out a soft chuckle. "Thank you. I learned most of it from my grandmother. She said a warm kitchen can heal more wounds than cold medicine."

Annabel let out the smallest breath of a laugh. It was faint, but real.

Katarina served the porridge into a small bowl, placing it carefully in front of her. She sliced up a banana and laid the pieces around the edge.

"Try to eat slowly," she said, placing a spoon beside her. "It’s still warm."

Annabel nodded and picked up the spoon. The first bite was hesitant. Then another. She didn’t say much, but the way she ate said enough. She was hungry. Not just for food—but for peace. For routine.

Katarina sat across from her now, nursing her own cup of tea.

The light between them was soft and golden. A breeze came through the window, fluttering the curtains gently. Outside, a bird landed briefly on the sill before flying away.

Then, just as Katarina began to rise and clear the bread plate, Annabel spoke.

"Where’s Raffaele?"

Katarina paused, looking over her shoulder. It wasn’t the question she expected today, but it didn’t surprise her either.

She placed the plate down again. "He’s been busy. But he’s safe."

Annabel stirred her porridge, eyes cast downward. "He hasn’t come."

"He wanted to," Katarina said gently. "But after the attack, he thought it best to keep movement limited. Security first."

Annabel didn’t respond immediately. She just kept stirring, even though the bowl was already half-empty.

"Has he asked about me?"

"Every day."

Annabel looked up now. Her eyes weren’t angry or sad. Just tired. Curious.

"Pinky?" She asked again.

"Pinky is fine." She hoped so. Before she hadn't seen Pinky in a while and Katarina wouldn't let her see her. She had to focus on her own healing first, according to her.

They both sat in silence again for a while. The clock ticked softly.

Annabel finished her porridge slowly. When she was done, she pushed the bowl back and rested her hands on the table.

"Can I stay here for a little longer? I just want to sit."

"Of course," Katarina said, beginning to tidy up quietly.

Annabel watched her again as she moved about, wiping counters, rinsing the dishes, humming under her breath.

After some time, Alicia appeared in the doorway, holding a small pouch. "Morning checkup."

Annabel gave a small nod. Katarina stepped aside to give her space.

While Alicia checked her pulse and temperature, Katarina poured another cup of tea and slid it in front of her.

"Green tea this time. Thought you might want a change."

Annabel gave the faintest smile. "Thank you."