In the dining room, Freya sat at the table swinging her legs under the chair, a slight frown forming on her delicate face. "Daddy, I'm hungry," she said, her small voice edged with impatience.
From the kitchen, Ethan called out, "Five more minutes for the pie, Princess. I'm bringing a starter in just one minute."
True to his word, he lifted the lid of the steamer and carefully scooped the tender green beans into a ceramic bowl. He sprinkled a bit of pink salt over them and gently stirred the steaming beans with a wooden spoon. Then, he added a dusting of freshly grated lemon zest, letting the citrus aroma infuse the dish.
He stepped into the dining room with the bowl in his hands and a theatrical flourish in his voice. "Your Highness, here are your Steamed Green Beans." He bowed as if presenting a royal offering.
Freya giggled at his exaggerated gesture, her eyes lighting up with joy.