Just as Lena gave a fierce glare, she heard the sound of the elevator door opening.
Josefina, sporting her workout gear, descended the stairs. Lena beamed a smile and greeted her, "Good morning, Josie. You're up with the birds. Got any big plans for rising so early?"
The thought crossed Lena's mind: surely Josefina wasn't planning to whip up a surprise breakfast for their parents too?
Lena watched her with guarded eyes, making Josefina feel uncomfortable all over. "Just going for a run," she muttered before heading out.
Lena took a deep breath and hurried to the kitchen.
...
Garrett and Hattie were taken aback upon seeing Lena, aproned and bustling about the kitchen, preparing breakfast. Hattie's eyes flickered towards the servers presenting the dishes. No sign of distress, no expression of panic. It seemed Lena hadn't turned the kitchen upside down.
Lena chirped cheerily, "Mom, Dad, breakfast is served. I've made it myself. Give it a try and see if I've gotten any better."
Regina chimed in too, "Miss Josefina was up at the crack of dawn preparing breakfast—such a devoted daughter."
Hattie reassured Lena, "Sweetheart, don't overdo it. You need your rest in the morning. Don't worry about breakfast; you've got work to attend to. Take care of yourself."
"Mom, I've got it all balanced—work and home. No worries. Please, try the soup I've made. Let me get you a bowl."
The tender moment between Lena and her mother wasn't lost on Josefina, who sat down to eat, seemingly indifferent to Lena's efforts.
Lena ladled out a bowl for Josefina as well, "Josie, have a taste."
"Thank you," Josefina said, taking a sip.
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