"You really don't need my help?"
"No." Her tone was harsh. She didn't really want to be around him.
"How about I dry the dishes for you?"
"..."
Morton Grant had already picked up a dry cloth. He took a freshly washed bowl and began to dry it, smiling at her. "Don't worry, I promise I'll get them sparkling clean for you..."
His smile was brilliant, like the warm rays of the sun.
Skylar Lockwood watched him, her expression turning strangely dazed. Many years ago, the kitchen—that sacred ground—had been the domain of their big brother, Flynn Lynch. After every meal, Flynn would wash the dishes and she would dry them, while Stella chattered away about little things beside them. Flynn would occasionally look up at Stella, his "little sparrow," and his warm gaze would always land on her and her alone.
And she would smile quietly, keeping them company in silence.
The scene was so heartwarming.
That had been the happiest time of her life...
But it was long gone, never to return.
