The warm glow of the dining room light cast a cozy atmosphere as the four of you sat around the modest dining table. The smell of creamy pasta alfredo filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of fresh bread. Plates clinked softly as everyone settled in for dinner.

Mom: "So, pasta alfredo tonight! Thought I'd mix it up a little—no chicken and rice this time." Her voice was bright, a clear effort to keep things cheerful.

Simon: "Good call, hun. This is delicious. You’ve outdone yourself." His voice carried an easy warmth, though there was something practiced in the way he smiled.