Thursday afternoon arrived with a soft warmth in the air. Alexia had managed to leave work early — something that rarely happened — and instead of going straight home, her feet led her down the familiar cobblestone path toward Margaret’s cozy little house.
The smell of lemon and herbs wafted through the open kitchen window as soon as she arrived. Margaret greeted her with a bright smile and a flour-dusted apron, ushering her inside like a mother hen.
“Back again so soon, dear?” Margaret asked, setting out ingredients on the counter. “You must really be determined to impress that handsome husband of yours.”
Alexia chuckled, brushing her hair behind her ear. “Something like that.”
“Good. Today, we’re doing pan-seared salmon with garlic butter and roasted vegetables.”
An hour later, the
