Chapter 5 Strangers Under One Roof

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CHAPTER 5: Strangers Under One Roof

The morning light streamed through the curtains as Amara blinked awake. For a moment, she forgot where she was. But the soft lavender scent and unfamiliar ceiling reminded her-this was her new home now.

She freshened up and stepped out, unsure if Chike had already left for work. To her surprise, he was in the kitchen, making tea.

"Good morning," he said without looking up.

"Morning," she replied, hugging herself.

He poured two cups and slid one toward her. "I figured you'd be up soon."

"Thanks."

They sat in silence, sipping tea. The quiet wasn't hostile-it was just... unfamiliar.

"You don't have to pretend," Chike said, finally looking at her. "We're both figuring this out."

Amara glanced at him. He didn't seem cold-just careful.

"I'm not pretending. I'm just... confused."

"Same."

Their eyes met for a second before they both looked away.

"Do you want to go out today?" he asked. "Fresh air might help."

She hesitated. "Sure."

It wasn't much, but it was a start. Two strangers, brought together by family decisions, slowly learning how to share space, time, and maybe-eventually-understanding.

For now, a quiet tea and a soft "sure" would have to do.

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