Chapter 21

• Zander was in the kitchen, preparing breakfast, when the front door creaked open. Daniel stepped inside, arms laden with grocery bags. He paused, his eyes widening in surprise as he took in the scene before him.
• Aria sat on the couch, looking different—more composed, perhaps even a little stronger than the day before. Gone was the wild fear in her eyes; instead, there was a quiet determination that intrigued him. Daniel’s brow furrowed as he glanced between Aria and Zander, confusion etched across his face.
• “Why is she here?” Daniel asked, his voice tinged with disbelief. He set the grocery bags down, his gaze shifting from Aria to Zander, seeking answers.