Jay was busy helping Serina in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and arranging ingredients for dinner. The warm aroma of home-cooked food filled the room, and Jay hummed softly, enjoying the calm moment with Serina.
"You know, Jay," Serina said fondly, placing a hand on her shoulder, "I've always loved you like my own daughter. Sometimes… I think I love you even more than my own children."
Jay laughed softly, a blush rising on her cheeks. "Mama… don't say that. You'll make me too proud."
Serina's eyes twinkled with mischief. "Proud? Oh, I don't care. You've worked so hard, and you're part of this family… mine. I won't let anyone forget it."
Kia, who had been lingering nearby, caught the words and stiffened. Her eyes narrowed, jealousy flashing across her face. "Hah! So she's more loved than me now? Figures. You're always favoring her!"
Jay froze mid-chop, glancing at Kia with surprise. "Kia… I'm just helping Mama. I'm not taking anyone's place."
Kia scoffed, stepping closer. "Helping? Don't act so perfect. You're always around, always… everyone seems to care about you more than me!"
Serina's eyes narrowed, her maternal instincts flaring. "Kia!" she said sharply, stepping between Jay and the girl. "That's enough!"
Kia raised her voice, but Serina didn't flinch. "Do not insult Jay in my kitchen—or anywhere in this house! She is part of this family, and I will not let you disrespect her!"
Jay quickly stepped back, startled by the sudden tension, while Serina's gaze pierced Kia. "I've raised many children in my life," Serina continued, her voice steady but firm, "and I've never let jealousy or anger harm what's right. Jay has been nothing but caring, loyal, and kind—and she deserves respect."
Kia opened her mouth to retort, but the force of Serina's words stopped her. For the first time, she hesitated, realizing that her jealousy wouldn't be tolerated.
Serina turned to Jay, placing a reassuring hand on her arm. "Ignore her, my daughter. Some people take time to understand love isn't a competition. You… you are my family, and nothing can change that."
Jay exhaled slowly, letting the warmth of Serina's protection calm her. "Thank you, Mama," she whispered.
Serina smiled softly, ruffling her hair. "Always. Now, let's finish dinner. The kitchen isn't a place for fights—it's a place for love, food, and family."
Kia stood back, silently simmering, but for now, Serina's firm intervention had set the boundary. Jay felt safe, loved, and fiercely protected—the kind of love only a mother could give.