Chapter 1:

The Unexpected Guest

I stirred the pasta sauce slowly, the rich aroma of garlic and tomatoes filling our cozy kitchen. Three years of marriage to Marcus had taught me the comfort of routine, but sometimes that comfort felt a little too predictable. At twenty-six, I still craved something more exciting than weekly grocery runs and quiet evenings on the couch. “Marcus, dinner will be ready in ten minutes,” I called out toward the living room.

My husband walked in, loosening his tie with a tired smile. “Smells amazing, Elara. You always know how to make a long day better.”

He kissed my cheek quickly and grabbed a beer...