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I sat quietly at the kitchen table, sipping the hot chocolate Grant had made for me, the warmth soothing my frayed nerves.
The silence was comforting, broken only by the gentle hum of the stove as Grant tidied up. Just as I was beginning to settle, the door creaked open and a group of Eros' men stepped inside.
They froze mid-step when they spotted me, their eyes widening slightly before dropping to the floor in unison.
"Apologies, Mrs. Ricci." One of them muttered, already retreating. The others followed suit, mumbling their apologies as they turned to leave.
"Wait," I called softly, setting my mug down and standing. They hesitated, looking unsure, before turning back to face me, "It's alright. You don't have to leave."
Their gazes flicked nervously to Grant, who gave a small nod of approval. Relieved, they stepped further inside, though they still avoided looking directly at me.
"What brings you all here?" Grant asked, leaning casually against the counter.
"We were just ordering some food. Haven't had a chance to eat all day." One of the men cleared his throat, scratching the back of his neck. At his words, my brow furrowed.
They've been working nonstop, protecting us, and they haven't eaten?
My heart ached for them, my natural instinct to care for others kicking in.
"That's not right," I said softly, earning confused glances from the men, "You shouldn't have to wait for food. Let me make you something."
The room fell silent.
"What?" One of them asked, blinking at me in disbelief.
"You've all been working so hard for Eros," I said, my voice steady despite the chaos still swirling inside me, "It's the least I can do."
The men exchanged hesitant looks, clearly unsure if they should let me. One of them finally spoke up, his tone laced with concern.
"You don't have to trouble yourself, Mrs. Ricci." He said when I shook my head.
"It's no trouble," I insisted, giving them a small smile, "Besides, it'll keep my mind busy."
"Alright, you heard her. Let's see what we've got in this kitchen." Grant's eyes softened as he watched me, and after a moment, he clapped his hands together.
The men moved awkwardly at first, rummaging through cabinets and the fridge while I rolled up my sleeves. The sight of such large, intimidating men fumbling around like schoolboys trying to impress their teacher was almost endearing.
