"I don't even know what's real anymore," Serena sighed as she entered the greenhouse, her voice weary and laced with frustration. "We take one step forward, and then something happens to push us back..."
Her gaze landed on Aiden, sitting casually with a bowl of steaming noodles on the table in front of him. The smell hit her instantly, warm and inviting.
She couldn't help but grin, as she plopped into the chair opposite him. Without hesitation, she reached for the bowl, holding it close and inhaling the savory aroma. "How did you know to have these ready?"
Aiden's lips curved into a soft, knowing smile. "I figured you wouldn't be able to sit there for long. Now, eat up, then we'll talk."
It was only after Serena took her first bite that she realized how ravenous she was. She sighed deeply, savoring the comfort the food brought. Bite after bite, her tense shoulders began to relax. Finally, after a few mouthfuls, she set the bowl down with a small huff of contentment.
