The sunlight filtered softly through the villa’s expansive kitchen windows, casting a golden glow on the polished countertops. Jessica stood at the large island, her hands busy chopping vegetables while the smell of sizzling bacon filled the air. Beside her, Anna, the family’s long-time housekeeper, stirred a pot of creamy oatmeal on the stove. The older woman’s movements were deliberate yet practiced, her years of experience making every action efficient.
Jessica glanced over, a fond smile tugging at her lips. “Anna, you don’t have to do all this. I can manage.”
Anna chuckled, her wrinkled face creasing with warmth. “Nonsense, child. You’ve enough on your plate without me leaving you to fend for yourself in the kitchen.” She motioned toward the tray already partially filled with an
