(Ava’s POV)
I made my way to the kitchen, my steps still slightly unsteady. The scent of food filled the air, warm and familiar, grounding me in a way I desperately needed.
Emily was already at the table, picking at a plate of toast while scrolling through her phone. When she looked up and saw me, she grinned.
“Well, well, well. Look who finally decided to show up.”
I managed a weak smile as I sat down. “Morning.”
Emily’s eyes narrowed slightly as she studied me. “Why do you look like you just saw a ghost?”
I nearly choked on my breath.
“I—I’m fine,” I said quickly, grabbing a piece of toast to avoid looking at her.
Emily wasn’t convinced. “You sure? Because you look like you just walked in on something you weren’t supposed to.”
I nearly dropped my toast.
Emily gasped. “Oh my goo
