Jenna Roland set down the kitchen knife and wiped her hands before answering the phone.
"Grandma Blanche, is everything alright?"
The kind voice of Grandma Blanche came through the receiver. "Jenna, dear, your grandfather and I were thinking of coming over for lunch. Would that be convenient?"
Jenna glanced at the half-chopped vegetables on the cutting board. "I'm actually preparing lunch right now. Please come over—I'll just add a couple more dishes."
"That's wonderful! We'll be on our way."
After hanging up, Jenna hurried to the fridge and pulled out fresh pork ribs and a sea bass.
The kitchen soon filled with the rhythmic sounds of cooking. Jenna multitasked effortlessly—chopping, stir-frying, simmering soup. By 11:30 AM, six aromatic dishes were neatly arranged on the counter.
The doorbell rang right on cue.
Jenna opened the door to find Ethan Roscente's tall frame leading the way, with beaming Grandma Blanche and Grandpa Harrison behind him.
"Please come in." Jenna stepped aside, taking Grandma Blanche's coat to hang up.
"Something smells amazing!" Grandma Blanche inhaled deeply. "We came at the perfect time."
Jenna smiled. "The food just finished cooking. Please have a seat while I bring everything out."
Grandma Blanche gave Ethan a meaningful look. "Go help Jenna."
Silently, Ethan washed his hands and followed Jenna into the kitchen. They worked in seamless coordination, soon transferring all six dishes to the dining table.
Grandma Blanche surveyed the spread and frowned. "Jenna, why are all these our favorite dishes? Where are the ones you like?"
It was always like this—the girl constantly prioritized their preferences over her own.
"I'm not picky." Jenna ladled soup into each bowl. "I enjoy all these dishes."
Grandma Blanche shook her head fondly. "You're too considerate for your own good. It makes us feel guilty."
"You and Grandpa are elderly, and Ethan works hard. It's only natural I cook what you prefer." Jenna handed Ethan his rice bowl. "Thank you."
Their fingers brushed briefly as he accepted it. "Let's eat," he said simply.
The meal unfolded in warm companionship, though Grandma Blanche kept exchanging hesitant glances with Grandpa Harrison.
After dinner, Jenna and Ethan cleared the table together. Watching her grandson efficiently wipe surfaces and wash dishes, Grandma Blanche shared a pleased look with her husband.
"Darling," she whispered, "how should we bring it up? Jenna already has so much on her plate."
Grandpa Harrison pondered. "Let's hear her thoughts first. We can always drop it if necessary."
"I can't possibly say it," Grandma Blanche demurred. "You do it."