Chapter 79: A Storm Brewing

The next morning brought a rare moment of peace, though it felt fragile, as if the calm were merely the eye of a larger storm. The sun filtered through the windows of Mallory's apartment, painting the walls in hues of golden light. For once, the group wasn't scrambling to survive or preparing for a conflict, but the tension from the previous day's battle still lingered in the air.

Greg was the first to break the silence, plopping a plate of steaming pancakes on the table. "Breakfast is served. And yes, Mallory, I remembered to burn a few just the way you like them."

Mallory, sprawled on the couch with Blinky perched on her lap, raised an eyebrow. "Burnt pancakes? Bold of you to assume that's my preference and not just a testament to my culinary skills."

Harper laughed as she snagged a plate. "I don't care how they look as long as they're edible. Thanks, Greg."