Jasmine's POV
The kitchen is alive with the clatter of pots and pans, the sizzle of food on the stove, and the rich aroma of spices. I stand at the counter, carefully chopping vegetables as Chef Marco watches over my shoulder.
"Very good, Your Highness," he says with a smile. "You're getting better every day."
I beam at his praise. Over the past few weeks, the kitchen has become my sanctuary. Chef Marco has been teaching me new recipes, and I find the work soothing. It's a welcome distraction from the tension that's been building in the castle.
"Thank you, Marco," I say. "I never thought I'd enjoy cooking so much."
Marco chuckles. "It's in your blood, I think. You have a natural talent for it."
I move to the stove, stirring the pot of soup we're making. "Do you really think so? I sti
