Chapter 106

Cassandra leaned forward as Thomas and Theresa carefully set two steaming plates before her. The kitchen lights cast a warm glow on their determined faces. Surprise fluttered in her chest—her husband’s jaw was firm, Theresa’s brow furrowed under that familiar spark of competitive fire. Cassandra half-smiled, though questions danced behind her eyes. What fierce duel had her family conjured this time?

She recalled how Theresa’s earliest “battles” had revolved around pennies and nickels—her toddler self, enthralled by the click of a cash register toy. Then, almost overnight, a culinary passion blossomed inside their eldest: proud displays of miniature soufflés, then full dinners. At first, Thomas and Cassandra had dismissed it as a passing phase, but here they were, father and daughter once more vying over spatulas and spices.

An eager voice sliced through her reverie. “Ooh!” Clyde bounded in through the kitchen doorway, the aroma of garlic and rosemary following him. “A co