-Raya-
The last grain of rice disappeared from my plate, and I leaned back with a small sigh. I hadn’t realized how hungry I was until halfway through the meal—everything Alec heated was perfect. Warm. Comforting. Exactly what I needed after today.
I glanced at him. He was already finished, pushing the last bit of yolk around with his fork absentmindedly. His expression was unreadable, calm as ever. But every so often, I’d catch him glancing my way. Like now.
I tried not to let it get to me.
“I’ll just… wash these,” I said, standing and gathering both our plates. “You can leave yours. I got it.”
He didn’t argue. He didn’t offer to help either. He just stood, carried his plate to the sink, and placed it beside mine without a word. Then he leaned against the counter, arms crossed, eyes
