Chapter 84

Chloe gingerly pulled out a dusty, small box from the storage room. Regret washed over her for not bringing a mask to protect herself from the accumulated dust. Carefully, she opened the box and her eyes landed on a book resting on top.

The title read "A Handbook Guide to Cooking," and a faint smile spread across Chloe's face. Memories flooded back, and she shared her recollection with Max. "I remember one morning when my mom wanted to surprise us with something special. She had this book on the kitchen table, and I couldn't resist staying in the kitchen. I sat on my special chair, reading the recipe aloud to her." Chloe chuckled, reliving the moment.

Max could see the deep connection Chloe had with her mother. Her eyes held a mixture of joy and sorrow, and he understood the profound loss she felt. Losing a mother was a pain he knew all too well.

Chloe gently placed the cooking book aside and picked up a picture frame from the box. Her heart swelled with warmth as she gazed at the cap