After covering a thousand meters, she wiped the sweat from her brow and made her way to the university cafeteria.
"Miss Brooks, grabbing breakfast for Mr. Lancaster again? The usual three?"
Raiden had a fondness for pancakes with maple syrup, while Reaghan preferred blueberry muffins and scrambled eggs. That had become their "usual three."
The tomato soup, a comforting blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil and a touch of cream, was simmered to perfection and served with a side of crusty bread.
On a winter morning, a steaming bowl of it was both soothing and filling.
Once she finished her breakfast, she glanced at the clock. It wasn’t even 8 a.m. yet. She decided to change and head to the library.
Living on campus made everything easier—reading, eating and everything in between. She appreciated the convenience Raiden’s arrangements had brought her.
But when she returned home, she found Raiden and Reaghan, one tall and one small, blocking the doorway.
From behind, she heard Raiden’s cold voice.
"Where did you go?"
"The cafeteria," Astrella replied with calm composure. She slipped off her shoes and coat, still feeling the chill from the outside air.