Chapter 54

Lauren's POV

And just like always, the meal tasted amazing. Tessa had this uncanny way of making food that somehow felt like more than just food, it was like she seasoned it with comfort itself. Even in the worst moments of my life, she knew how to put something in front of me that lifted my spirits.

“How was it?” she asked, her eyes bright with that familiar curiosity, leaning forward as though the answer would decide her whole morning.

I gave her a slow, amused look, the kind that clearly said, Do you seriously have to ask me that? Then I finally let the words out.

“The meal was nice,” I said, placing my fork down carefully and dabbing at my lips with a napkin. “You even added carrots to my eggs. I think I enjoyed that the most—it gave the eggs this sweet little crunch.”

But I tilted my head at her, because I knew her far too well. “That being said… ever since you walked in here with this perfect little breakfast tray, I’ve had the di