Chapter 44

Lyra’s POV

I’m at the stove when he slides in behind me. “Good morning, wife,” Alistair says with that familiar half-grin, the one that always makes my heart skip. “I’m making your favorite: noodles with plenty of kimchi.” The scent of ginger and spice drifts through the air, and a knot tightens in my chest. Only yesterday I’d used those same words to tease him, and now here he is—up before dawn—preparing ramen just how I love it.

He hums softly as he stirs the broth, steam curling around his forearms. I watch him and realize how much I crave mornings like this—simple, warm, ordinary. The bright city sunshine filters through the tiny kitchen window, illuminating everything in a buttery glow. I try to match his smile.

Alistair’s POV

“Then tonight, I’ll make you that rice-and-meat soup you asked about,” I tell her, as if it’s the most natural thing in the world. Her eyebrows arch in surprise, excitement brightening her eyes. “You know how to cook?