𝙻𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚒𝚜𝚢 : ᴘᴀɪɢᴇ ʙᴜᴇᴄᴋᴇʀꜱ

21- Homecoming dinner

Emma stood in the warm kitchen of Paige's childhood home, watching as Monica moved gracefully around the stove, stirring pots and checking the oven with practiced ease. The smell of spices, roasted vegetables, and something sweet and buttery filled the air, making Emma's stomach rumble with anticipation. It was her second day in Minnesota, and she still hadn't quite adjusted to the overwhelming kindness and warmth Paige's family had shown her.

Being welcomed into Paige's home had been a heartwarming experience—everyone had been so open, so accepting—and yet there was still a tiny part of Emma that couldn't quite believe she was here, sharing this time with them. Paige had reassured her over and over again that her family loved having her here, that they already adored her. But deep down, Emma had always felt like an outsider when it came to family—at least until now.

"Smells amazing in here," Emma said with a smile as she leaned against the kitchen counter, watching Monica.

Monica looked up from her cooking and smiled warmly at her. "Thank you, Emma," she said, her voice as soothing as ever. "It's a special night, after all. We're so happy to have you here."

Emma felt her cheeks warm with a blush. "I'm happy to be here," she replied softly, and she meant it. For once, she truly felt like she belonged.

Monica wiped her hands on a kitchen towel and turned to face Emma, her eyes sparkling. "I hope you're hungry," she said, laughing lightly. "Bob always says I go overboard when I cook for special occasions, but I can't help myself."

Emma laughed along with her. "If the smell is anything to go by, I'm definitely hungry," she said. "And I think Paige warned me that you're an incredible cook."

Monica's smile widened. "I do my best," she said, her tone playful. "But don't let her fool you—Paige has a few tricks up her sleeve in the kitchen, too. Although I'm not sure when she'll have time to show you with all that basketball."

Emma smiled at the mention of Paige, her heart swelling with affection. "She's full of surprises," she agreed. "She already cook for me and it was pretty good."

Monica chuckled softly before turning her attention back to the stove. "Well, you're welcome to come back anytime for another home-cooked meal," she said warmly. "This house is always open to you, Emma."

Emma's heart fluttered at the words, and for a moment, she was overwhelmed by the kindness she had been shown by Paige's family. It felt so different from her own upbringing, where things were always formal and distant, even with her mom. Being here felt like stepping into a completely different world—one where warmth and love were freely given.

Paige walked into the kitchen then, her blonde hair pulled back in a loose ponytail, and Emma couldn't help but smile when she saw her. Paige grinned back at her, and without hesitation, she walked over and placed a soft kiss on Emma's cheek.

"You two conspiring without me?" Paige teased, her arm slipping around Emma's waist.

Emma chuckled softly, leaning into Paige's side. "Just admiring Monica's cooking," she replied. "I'm pretty sure this is going to be the best meal I've ever had."

Paige laughed, her eyes sparkling. "I told you she's the best," she said. Then, turning to Monica, she added, "Need any help, Mom?"

Monica waved her off with a smile. "No, no, everything's under control," she said. "You just keep Emma company. Dinner's almost ready."

Paige nodded, her arm still wrapped around Emma as they left the kitchen and made their way into the dining room. Bob was already there, setting the table with a casual efficiency that spoke of years of routine. Drew was seated at the end of the table, bouncing slightly in his chair, clearly eager for dinner to start. He looked up as Paige and Emma entered and grinned widely.