Elaine
The sound of clattering pots and pans reached my ears the moment I stepped into the hallway. That sound had always meant one thing—Helen was back in her domain. The kitchen was her kingdom, and no one could mistake her presence when the music of clinks, bangs, and sizzling filled the air.
I paused at the doorway, bracing myself. My heart was heavy, my mind still clouded from everything that had happened yesterday, but I forced my lips into what I hoped looked like a smile. If I let my sadness show, Helen would see through me in an instant. She always did.
“Hi, Helen,” I called softly, stepping into the warm, fragrant kitchen. The air smelled of butter and herbs, instantly wrapping around me like a comforting blanket. “I missed you yesterday.”
Helen, bustling near the oven, pulle
