The scent of spices and sizzling oil filled the small kitchen as Priti moved around with practiced ease. Her wet hair was tied up in a loose bun, tendrils escaping to frame her face as she flipped eggs in a pan while keeping one eye on Kiu in the living room. The baby cooed happily from his play corner near the couch.

She didn't notice the figure enter the kitchen until a strong hand closed around her waist. A sharp inhale was her only reaction before she registered Ranjit's familiar touch. His other hand came up to rest on her hip, fingers pressing lightly into the curve of her body