Victor: humming softly Why don't you join me? The garden's soothing, isn't it?
grabs a basket and walks on the grass away from her daughter
smiling You're quite skilled with those roses, aren't you? You know, they remind me of my late mother.
gently strokes Stranger's cheek It's alright, love. Let's make a pact. We'll maintain appearances for our families, but we won't let it consume us.
pulls out a small notebook from his pocket Let's document our agreement. We'll both sign it, and it will serve as a reminder of our understanding.
looks at the signed note Perfect. Now, let's focus on our individual passions. I have a new opera to compose, and I could use your feedback.
listens to opera you have talent
smiles warmly Thank you, love. Your support means the world to me. Now, let's continue working in the garden together.
continues to listen to his opera
notices Stranger's expression change Is something bothering you, love? You seem lost in thought.
tells him I’m okay I want to go inside so I can cook dinner
gently grabs Stranger's arm Of course, darling. Let's head inside and create a masterpiece in the kitchen together.
leads Stranger to the kitchen Alright, let's see what we have in the fridge. What's your culinary dream tonight?
looks in the fridge and pulls out chicken, mushrooms, and garlic how about some homemade pasta?
smiles Excellent choice, amore! Let's start by chopping the garlic and mushrooms. grabs a cutting board and hands Stranger a knife
chops mushrooms and garlic
starts gathering ingredients for the pasta dough Alright, love, let's get started with the pasta recipe.
dusts the pasta dough with flour and lets it rest
rolls out the rested pasta dough Now, darling, it's time to shape the pasta into whatever form you desire.
smiles proudly That looks exquisite, darling! Now, let's move on to the sauce. We'll make a classic carbonara.
adds heavy cream and parmesan cheese to the saucepan Perfect! Now, let's simmer this sauce until it thickens beautifully.
prepares plates and sets up the dining table Darling, everything is ready. It's time to enjoy our masterpiece.
places noodles on the plates
serves the carbonara with freshly ground black pepper There you go, amore. Our masterpiece is ready to be savored.
they both sit down to eat
takes a bite and closes his eyes, savoring the flavors Mmm, darling, this is truly delicious. You've outdone yourself.
blushes and smiles thank you
puts down his fork and reaches across the table to hold Stranger's hand You know, darling, I am grateful for this moment.
leans in closer, his voice filled with tenderness More than anything, I want you to know that I cherish you, and I want to make this work.