The next day, Malik was already up in the guest suite of the Roy mansion where he and Sarah lived. He walked down silently on the bed, his back and ribs hurt from the previous day tournaments.
As he stood up, he took a shower and changed into plain clothes, then left quietly to the kitchen despite his pain, that's where his daily work always started.
Downstairs in the kitchen was quiet and cool. Malik navigated the familiar, upscale appliances with intense concentration.
He made an uncomplicated yet nutritious breakfast such as light scrambled eggs, toasted specialty bread, carefully sliced fresh fruit and a pot of robust coffee, all placed on a tray.
Malik worked silently, wiping counters, ensuring everything was spotless. The physical chores were a balm, a way to quiet the turmoi
