Chapter 137

The loft welcomed us like an old friend, its cozy warmth and soft lighting wrapping around us as we stepped inside. The faint aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, and I wasn’t surprised to find Andra humming to herself in the kitchen.

She stood on tiptoes, her petite frame stretched as she reached for a spice jar on the top shelf. Her youthful face was lit up with a concentration that made her look far less intimidating than she did in moments of combat readiness.

“Dinner’s almost ready,” she called over her shoulder, her voice betraying the bright and cheerful experience. “I hope you’re hungry—it’s one of my best.”

“Are you saying all the other times you cooked for us it wasn’t your best?” I asked teasingly as I shrugged off my jacket and hung it up on the coat rack by the front door.

“Exactly.” Andra replied without missing a beat. I could not help but laugh at her response.

She turned to me with a slight grin on her face. Her bright eyes sparkle