Real Chef

As they entered the kitchen, the atmosphere shifted to a comfortable rhythm. Luciana was still trying to calm her racing heart, but she focused on the task at hand. "Alright," she said, trying to sound natural, "what are we making for lunch?"

Oscar walked over, setting Charlie down gently on a nearby stool. "Pasta, as requested by the little man," he said, gesturing toward the kitchen counter, where some ingredients had already been set out. "We'll keep it simple."

Luciana nodded, trying to shake off the lingering awkwardness. "Simple is good."

Charlie, despite his earlier fatigue, was now full of energy and began hopping around, excitedly offering to help. "I can mix the sauce! And stir the pasta!" he exclaimed, eager to be part of the action.

Oscar chuckled, ruffling his son's hair. "How about you stir the sauce while Luciana and I handle the rest, hmm?"