𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐃𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐑𝐓

32

                                ᴏɴɪᴋᴀ ᴍᴀʀᴀᴊ

Thanksgiving Day

I made my way downstairs slowly, the sound of multiple voices filled the house. The energy was lively, and I could hear laughter and chatter coming from the direction of the kitchen and living room.

I walked into the kitchen, and my eyes landed on Sandra, Aubrey's mom. She was in the middle of a conversation with a man I'd never met before. I immediately guessed he was Aubrey's dad, and his resemblance to his son confirmed it.

Before I could even introduce myself, Sandra turned and her face lit up. "Oh my god, you look so gorgeous!" she exclaimed, grabbing my hand without hesitation and twirling me around.

I blushed, trying to stop her, but her energy was infectious. "Sandra, stop!" I laughed, my cheeks heating up.

"Seriously, look at you! Just glowing," she said with a wide smile, stepping back to admire me like I was her daughter. "Don't you think so, Dennis?"

He turned toward me, giving me a warm smile and nodding. "Absolutely. It's nice to finally meet you. I'm Dennis, Aubrey's dad."

I smiled shyly, extending my hand. "Nice to meet you too, Mr. Graham. I'm Onika."

"Oh, no need for 'Mr. Graham,'" he chuckled, shaking my hand. "Just Dennis is fine. I've heard a lot about you."

I glanced toward Sandra, who was grinning knowingly, and I couldn't help but feel a bit nervous.

Aubrey had mentioned me to his dad?

That felt... significant.

"Well, I hope all good things,"

Sandra waved her hand dismissively, laughing. "Of course, sweetheart. Nothing but good things."

She turned her attention back to the stove, where several dishes were simmering or baking. The smell of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl quietly.

"You're just in time to help, too," Sandra added with a wink.

I laughed, stepping closer. "What do you need me to do?"

"Just keep me company for now," she said. "Dennis here has been trying to sneak tastes of everything, so I need another pair of eyes to keep him in check!"

Dennis shook his head, laughing. "Caught me red-handed."

The atmosphere felt so warm and welcoming.

Thanksgiving in Aubrey's world was definitely different from what I was used to, but in the best way possible.

Sandra handed me a spoon, gesturing toward a pot on the stove. "Taste this for me, sweetheart. I need a second opinion on the gravy," she said, her tone light and full of warmth.