The soft clatter of dishes came from the kitchen.
A moment later, Lucy emerged carrying a tray, steam rising gently from the bowl she set in front of Bruce. The scent was familiar, simple, hearty, something made not to impress but to comfort.
"Eat," she said, placing a spoon beside it. "And don't rush."
Bruce glanced down at the food, then up at her. "You didn't have to—"
"I did," Lucy replied calmly, already turning back toward the kitchen. "You've been gone. That's reason enough."
She returned with a second bowl and set it in front of Lily, then poured herself a cup of tea before finally sitting down. Ash climbed onto the empty chair beside Bruce and leaned forward, eyes fixed on the food with intense interest.
"No," Lucy said immediately.
Ash froze.
"That's not for you."
Ash chirped softly, pretending he hadn't been aiming for it.
Bruce took the first bite.
