We descended a short hallway that opened into a massive kitchen, and I stopped in my tracks. It was stunning. Everything gleamed, polished marble counters, silver appliances, spotless tiled floors. The lights were soft and warm, reflecting off the chrome surfaces. It looked like something out of a high-end cooking show. The air smelled faintly of herbs and freshly baked bread, and my fingers twitched with the urge to start working.
On the far side of the kitchen, a girl was huddled over a counter, stirring something in a pot. Her posture was tense, and when Rina called her name, she jumped and dropped her spoon with a sharp clatter.
“Mae!” Rina snapped. “Stop daydreaming. Come here.”
Mae fumbled to pick up the spoon, but I crouched down first and handed it to her. Her eyes darted to min
