Under the Shadow of Reality

Kevin stood in the kitchen doorway, watching Cassie busy preparing breakfast. The fragrant aroma of eggs and toast filled the room, creating a warm morning atmosphere. For a moment, Kevin felt at peace—as if everything was starting to return to normal. But deep down, he knew this was only the beginning of their struggles.

Cassie noticed Kevin's presence and turned with a gentle smile. "You're up already? Sit down, I made breakfast. You must be hungry after sleeping on the couch."

Kevin smiled back, though his smile was weaker. He approached the dining table and sat down, feeling relieved that this morning could start without too much tension. But beneath the lighthearted conversation and family warmth, something unspoken lingered between them—the sense that bigger problems still lurked beneath the surface.

"Thanks, Cass," Kevin said, trying to sound cheerful. "But you know I can make my own breakfast, right?"