Zinnia asked, hoping to break the tension in the air, "Do you need help with dinner?"
Samuel glanced over his shoulder and gave her a small smile. "Actually, I've got it covered tonight. I'm making creamy chicken Alfredo with garlic bread and a side salad."
Zinnia raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Wow, Chef Samuel is stepping up his game!"
"Just trying not to burn the kitchen down this time," he teased with a smirk, turning back to the cutting board. "I've been practicing. Turns out, it's all about technique."
Zinnia chuckled and moved closer to the counter, trying to lighten the mood. "Well, if I taste even a hint of burnt garlic bread, we're going to have a problem."
"I'll make sure that doesn't happen," Samuel replied, pretending to be serious, though the smile on his face gave him away.
As they worked together, Zinnia felt herself relax. The playful banter made things feel almost normal again, despite the chaos surrounding them.
