Chapter 98

Sofia The aroma of fresh herbs and garlic filled the kitchen, mingling with the buttery warmth of dough being kneaded and the gentle bubbling of tomato sauce simmering on the stove. Laughter and light conversation wove through the air, blending seamlessly with the rhythmic sounds of chopping, stirring, and the occasional clatter of utensils. Jade sat on a stool beside me, carefully plucking fresh basil leaves from their stems, his small hands moving with focused determination. He had been given the important task of preparing the herbs—a duty he took very seriously. Every now and then, he’d pause to sniff the leaves before placing them in a neat pile. “Mama, do you think Papa Niko will like a lot of basil or just a little?” he asked, his brow furrowing as if the fate of the entire meal depended on the answer. I glanced at Nikolai, who was rolling out dough at the other end of the counter, his large hands working the flour-dusted surface with practiced ease. Lorelai sat securely on his