The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the kitchen as Ava methodically diced vegetables, lost in her thoughts. Maggie observed her with a mixture of concern and empathy. She had noticed Ava's distant demeanor lately and decided to address it.
" Ava, dear, is everything alright? " Maggie asked gently, her eyes studying Ava's face.
Ava looked up, momentarily startled, as if she had been pulled from a reverie. " Oh, sorry, Maggie. I was lost in my thoughts " she replied, forcing a smile.
Maggie nodded knowingly. " To be honest, I’ve noticed this for a while. You used to be so happy and cheerful, but lately, you’ve changed " she observed, concern etched on her wrinkled face.
Ava shook her head, trying to dismiss Maggie's concern. " Don't worry about me, Maggie. I'll handle it " sh
