Reclaiming My Broken Luna by Selene Souchon

Chapter 308: Pancakes Astrid's POV

The next day, I woke up early, determined to make the most of the time I had with Ryker.

If I couldn't tell him the truth yet, I'd focus on slowly building our relationship, step by careful step. Patience would be key, and I was willing to take it slow, to earn his trust.

I figured I'd start with breakfast - something simple but thoughtful, something he might enjoy.

It felt like a small gesture, but I hoped it could be the first step towards bridging the gap between us.

And as I stood in the kitchen, it hit me - this would be the first time I'd ever cooked breakfast for my son.

I wanted it to be special, something that showed how much I cared. But as I scanned the kitchen, my

mind raced with uncertainty. Pancakes? Eggs? Maybe toast with fruit on the side?

Every option seemed too simple, too ordinary for a moment that felt so significant.

I caught myself overthinking every little detail. What if he didn't like it? What if I got it wrong? I wanted so badly for him to enjoy it, to see that I was trying.

I started pacing, debating with myself on what would be the perfect meal.

Just then, the sound of footsteps pulled me from my thoughts. I turned to see Beta Ryder entering the kitchen, looking surprised to find me there so early.

He was only wearing a loose shirt and jeans, his hair still a little messy from sleep as he made his way over to the counter to grab a drink.

"Astrid, I didn't expect to see you up this early," he said, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.

a small smile, feeling a bit relieved to

I'm... just trying to make breakfast for Ryker." I hesitated for a moment before admitting, "I wanted to make something he likes, but I don't know

softened, and he nodded thoughtfully. "Well, you're in luck. Ryker loves pancakes. But not just any kind he's

for the information. "Particular? How

likes them crispy at the edges but fluffy in the middle. And he always has a bowl of fruit with it. But," Ryder added,

relief and anxiety. At least now I knew what he liked, but hearing the specifics made me realize

my voice sincere. "I appreciate you telling

reassuring look on his face. "No problem. And don't worry you've got this." With that, he

stood there for a moment, taking a deep

how he liked

over the stove, carefully pouring the batter into the pan, watching as the bubbles formed and

a mess - a chaotic scene of flour dusted across the counter, mixing bowls stacked

up from countless trial and error - some burnt to a crisp, others

had the perfect crispy edges and fluffy center that Ryder said Ryker

bubbled up as I

times, adjusting the heat, and pouring

I got it

crisped up just the way I wanted, and the center was light and airy. I set it aside with a sigh

several bowls scattered across the counter, each

piece, feeling the texture beneath my fingers, and carefully

took longer than I expected,

becoming crowded with

I tried to find the perfect balance