The soft rays of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm, golden glow in the bedroom. Zeriel stirred in his bed, slowly waking up to the sounds coming from the kitchen. At first, he couldn't make out what was happening, but as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes, the clattering of pans and the aroma of something cooking became more apparent.
Curiosity piqued, Zeriel swung his legs out of bed and slipped into his slippers. He left his room and followed the scent of breakfast as he made his way down the hallway. The kitchen door was slightly ajar, and as he approached, he couldn't help but overhear a conversation within.
Inside, Alisha was standing by the kitchen island, watching Ryan, her best friend, as he bustled around the stove. Alisha wore a quizzical expression as she asked, "Ryan, why are you cooking so early?"
