I walked into the classroom, feeling the usual buzz of energy that came with the cooking section. The large, open space was filled with rows of gleaming countertops, each equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and racks of pristine cooking tools.
The air smelled faintly of herbs and spices from previous lessons, and the warm sunlight streaming through the high windows gave the room an inviting glow.
Alicia caught up to me as I settled into my station. "Hey, Rhiannon," she said, her tone laced with concern. "You doing okay? You looked pretty beat up after that monster fight."
I shrugged, brushing a stray lock of hair behind my ear. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little bruised. Nothing a good meal and a bit of rest couldn't fix."
She gave me a skeptical look, her blue eyes narrowing. "Are you sure? You don't exactly have the best track record for taking care of yourself."
I smirked. "Relax, Alicia. I'm tougher than I look."