As they worked, Aria couldn't help but think about Elian. She had been talking to him every day, and she was starting to feel a strong connection to him. She wondered what he was doing right now, and whether he was thinking about her too.
But Aria didn't let her thoughts get too carried away. She was happy to be spending time with Rachel, and she didn't want to ruin the moment by getting too caught up in her thoughts about Elian.
Instead, she focused on the present moment, enjoying the warm and cozy atmosphere of the kitchen, and the good company of her friend Rachel.
As they finished packaging the cookies, Rachel turned to Aria and smiled. "Thanks for your help," she said. "I couldn't have done it without you."
Aria smiled back, feeling happy to have been able to help. "No problem," she said. "I had fun."