The kitchen was quiet except for the soft clinking of glass against wood as Hera arranged a tray. The warm, golden light of the late afternoon sun streamed through the tall windows, casting gentle shadows over the polished countertops. The scent of freshly baked cookies lingered in the air, mixing with the faint aroma of herbs from the spice rack nearby.
Hera stood on her toes, reaching up to open the cabinet above her head. Just as her fingers brushed against the handle, a large, warm hand suddenly appeared beside hers, pulling the cabinet open with ease.
"Here, let me help you," a voice said smoothly.
Hera stiffened for a moment before lowering her arm. She didn't need to turn around to know who it was. Her expression remained calm, but a sigh of mild exasperation escaped her lips.
"I can do it myself," she replied, reaching inside for a container filled with cookies.
