Solace in familiarity

Now, in Angel's Cloud.

Merette stands in the kitchen, the aroma of spices and simmering sauces filling the air as she stirs a pot on the stove. Leisl sits on her hip, babbling happily as she watches her mother work her culinary magic. The soft glow of the overhead light casts a warm ambiance over the room, creating a cozy atmosphere that envelopes them like a comforting embrace.

As she hears Rye's footsteps approaching, Merette can't help but smile. His presence always brought a sense of comfort and companionship, especially on days when she feels overwhelmed by the weight of her thoughts. She glances at the clock on the wall, noting that it is nearing dinner time, and she welcomes the distraction of his company.

"Hey, Rey," she greets as he enters the kitchen, his tired expression softening at the sight of her and Leisl. "Welcome home."

Rye returns her smile, "Hey, Mey." his eyes light up with affection as he leans in to press a kiss to Leisl's chubby cheek. "Hey there, little one," he coos, earning a delighted giggle from his niece who babbles an excited 'Uncle!'

"How was your day at the tavern?" She asks, cocking an eyebrow at him suggestively.

Rye shrugs, hooking his hands under Leisl's armpit and hoisting her up in his arms. "Busy as usual. And it's not so fun without you." He says, his voice dropping to a high pitched one as he says the next words, "Did you miss me, My Lei? Did you miss Uncle?"

Leisl nods her head excitedly, uttering a string of yesh as her little fingers work on the buttons of her uncle's plaid blue shirt. A smile blooms on her lips as she watches Rye and Leisl having an adorable moment.

Merette resumes her cooking, the rhythmic stirring of the pot a soothing backdrop to their conversation. She feels a sense of contentment settle over her as she focuses on the simple task at hand, grateful for the familiarity of the kitchen and the company of her loved ones.

As the savory aroma of the food fills the kitchen, Rye's voice flows to her ears, and she knows he is eager to catch up on the events of the day. She glances up at him, his expression warm and welcoming. "How was your day with this little one?"

"Great, you know I love to spend some quality time with my daughter," Merette tells him. From the shifts at the tavern, she's been so busy that she missed her daughter, truly, always feeling guilty for having to leave her in her neighbor's care.

Rye nods in understanding, walking toward the kitchen island and lowering down on the stool. "I know. You should take a few days off."

Merette hums, falling quiet for a moment as her mind reels to the conversation she had with her sister. "Guess what? My sister called today," she says, her voice tinges with a hint of nervousness.

Rye's interest is immediately piqued, and he leans against the kitchen counter, his gaze focusing on Merette. "Oh yeah? What did she say?" he asks with furrowed eyebrows.

"She wants me to go back." She sighs, turning around to completely face Rye.

"Go back?"

Merette hums, "Yeah, to visit. She says my parents and grandparents miss me terribly. You know I do too."

"Yeah, I know. What do you think? Are you going?" He asks with a crease between his eyebrows, running his hand up and down Leisl's back as she nuzzles his neck. "She's sleepy." He adds.

"Dinner's almost ready," Merette says, eyeing her daughter. "And yeah, I think I should go. I can't not go visit them after Merry's pleading, she'd been asking me for a while and I want to see them too."

"You should go then." Rye's eyes bore into Merette's. "Only if you're ready."

"We talked about... about Kaiser," she admits, her tone growing somber as she broaches the topic that weighs heavily on her mind.

Rye's expression softens, his eyes filling with empathy as he listens to Merette's words. She knows he knows how much Kaiser's reappearance has affected her, and he was determined to offer her the support she needed.

"Kaiser? What about him?" he asks gently, his voice laced with concern. He rises to his feet, stepping toward Merette.

Merette takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking. She opens her heart before him, letting out everything that suffocates her. She recounts her surprise at seeing Kaiser again after all these years, the rush of emotions it has unleashed, and the uncertainty of what the future holds for them.

"It's like my past came crashing back into my life," she confesses, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "I don't know how to process it all."

Rye listens attentively, and Merette knows his heart is aching for her as she grapples with the ghosts of her past. He reaches out, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"You don't have to go through this alone, Mey," he comforts her, his voice gentle and reassuring. "I'm here for you, always."

Merette smiles gratefully, her heart swelling with gratitude for Rye's unwavering support. She leans into his touch, drawing strength from his presence.

"Thank you, Rey," she whispers, her voice filled with emotion. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Rye drapes an arm around her shoulder, a silent promise to always be there for her. Together, they stand in the warm embrace of the kitchen, united by love and the bonds of family. As they face the challenges ahead, Merette knows that with Rye by her side, she can survive any storm.

As Merette continues to cook, the sounds of laughter and conversation fill the air, creating a sense of warmth and belonging that lingers long into the night. And as they sit down to enjoy their meal together, surrounded by love and the comfort of each other's company, Merette couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple joys of home and family.