As the aroma of roasted chicken filled the kitchen and dishes clattered, Delphinia wiped her hands with a dish towel. The simple act of helping prepare dinner had given her a rare sense of belonging in the big house, even if she often felt like an outsider. She glanced around to make sure everything was set—salad, bread, and the main course all perfectly arranged on the table.
"Dinner's ready!" she called, her voice bright and cheerful as she stepped into the living room.
Evander and Ashton sat side by side on the plush couch, their eyes glued to the television. A family-friendly animated movie played, its cheerful music adding a lively undertone to the evening. He turned to look at her, a barely-there smile softening his face. Ashton, however, didn't respond immediately, too absorbed in the colorful characters on the screen.
Delphinia placed her hands on her hips and smiled softly. "Evander, Ashton, come on, before the food gets cold."
