17
17
As dawn broke, a convoy of glossy ebony vehicles rolled into the quiet hamlet. Their engines' roar roused many from their slumber.
Stirred from his rest, Alex rose and made his way to the front room for a drink of water. Suddenly, he heard rushed steps at the entrance. The kitchen echoed with the noise of cookware being moved about.
"Nathan, shall I prepare eggs and bacon for your morning meal, or would you prefer something different?"
Emma's voice rang out to the vacant eating area as she juggled dishes and cutlery while setting water to boil. In her mind's eye, Nathan sat at the table in his crisp suit, perusing the day's news.
"I'll happily eat whatever you cook."
A gentle smile graced Emma's lips.
"You're so easily satisfied; you find my cooking merely acceptable."
She continued her preparations, unhurriedly dicing tomatoes. The juice staining her hands didn't seem to bother her.
Nathan halted at the threshold, perplexed by Emma's words. Who was she addressing?