Chapter 4

It was just past nine in the evening, and unusually, I was punctual. I carried a few takeout boxes into the kitchen. Due to my compulsive need for cleanliness, tasks most people considered routine felt unbearable to me. The mere aroma of cooking oil turned my stomach, not to mention the daunting prospect of cooking a meal. Entering the kitchen itself was a milestone.

"You mentioned wanting to try the food from that new restaurant, remember? I contacted the chef today before leaving work so all we need to do is heat it up and we can dig in," I…