Thessalia tried to focus on the task at hand, but her mind kept wandering to the upcoming visit of Marcus. She knew that she needed to keep her composure and act as if nothing had changed between them. But deep down, she was nervous and unsure of how to act around him. Ovidia noticed her distraction and paused from her cooking. "Is everything okay, dear?" she asked with concern. "Yes, everything's fine. Just thinking about something," Thessalia said as she forced a smile. This time Charice suddenly appeared and interrupted. "Something or someone?" she teased. Thessalia blushed and looked away. "Maybe someone," she admitted softly. Ovidia raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Do I sense a secret crush, dear?" she teased with an understanding smile. Her blush deepened as Thessalia

