Thor finished his coffee, wiped his mouth with the napkin, and stood up.

“Surprise me, Dona Lúcia. I trust your talent.”

She laughed heartily, shaking her head.

“Then I’ll make something really delicious.”

Thor stepped closer and pressed a warm kiss to the top of her head.

“I’m going for a ride and to take care of a few things. If Celina wakes up before I’m back, tell her I stepped out but will be home before lunch, okay?”

“Don’t worry, my son. God be with you.”

Thor gave her a quick wave, grabbed his hat, and walked out the front door, leaving behind the scent of coffee, cake, and the quiet serenity of home.

Celina woke to the gentle light of morning spilling through the window. Reaching for her phone, she saw it was already 10 a.m. and stretched lazily. The cool, crisp air from the countryside coaxed her out of bed. She padded to the window, opened it, and a chilly breeze brushed her face. She closed her eyes for a moment, breathing in deeply, letting the freshness renew her. The co