CHAPTER SEVENTY-THREE - THE TIES THAT BIND

  Next, Nia took the ferry to Staten Island, heading for the famous green market. The journey across the water gave her time to reflect, the Manhattan skyline growing smaller behind her as she steeled herself for the task ahead. The green market was a riot of colors and textures. Nia browsed stalls overflowing with heirloom tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and artisanal cheeses. She chatted with local farmers, their hands calloused and faces sun-weathered, as she carefully selected each ingredient. As the day wore on, Nia's bags grew heavy with her purchases, but her heart felt lighter. The act of preparing this meal for her family, of putting such care into each component, felt like a peace offering, a bridge across the chasm that had grown between them. Sunday evening arrived all too quickly. Nia's small apartment was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of her father's favorite dish as she put the finishing touches on the table setting. Her hands shook slightly as she smoothed the table