The kitchen was alive with soft laughter and the rhythmic sounds of chopping and shimmering pots. The scents of herbs and garlic filled the air, weaving comfort into the stillness of the house.
Regina stood near the center island, surrounded by a couple of maids who were slicing vegetables and stirring sauces.
Her dark hair was pulled into a messy bun, a light apron tied around her waist and a soft smile played on her lips as she laughed at something one of the maids said.
Ryder paused in the hallway, half-hidden behind the door-frame, his eyes fixed on her. The last few days had been a blur of stress－and through it all, he had avoided her.
Whether intentionally or unconsciously, he only saw her from a distance.
Seeing her alright now after the trauma she had passed through in the ha
