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.

small smile, feeling a bit

before admitting, "I wanted to make something he likes, but

expression softened, and he nodded thoughtfully. "Well, you're in luck. Ryker loves

grateful for

edges but fluffy in the middle. And he always has a bowl of fruit with it. But," Ryder added, "the fruit has to be just right-not too hard, not too soft. If it's not the way he

a mix of relief and anxiety. At least now I knew what he liked, but hearing the specifics made me realize just how much I needed to get

you, Ryder," I said, my voice sincere. "I appreciate

you've got this." With that, he gave me an encouraging nod

for a moment, taking a

breakfast exactly how he liked it could help him feel comfortable around me, then I was going to get

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

- a chaotic scene of flour dusted across the

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

had the perfect crispy edges and fluffy center that

up as

pancakes at different times, adjusting the heat, and pouring different

I got it

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

across the counter, each filled with different kinds - some too firm,

my fingers, and carefully

than I expected,

becoming crowded with

I tried to find the