Page 34 - ns2026

mistakenly identified as rubies, so the artisan offered to remake the ring entirely, but Stelara loved it even more with the mix-up. It gave the ring character. This one and its pair, which lay on a necklace hidden beneath Ziva’s shirt, took a year to make. This was the first day Stelara got to wear it.
“I got it for myself, actually. Doesn’t it suit me? The artisan put so much care into it, so of course I had to wear it!”
The two of them moved to sit at one of the tables, leaving poor Ziva flabbergasted at the entryway. Sighing, they walked over to the counter. It was nearly dusk, so there weren’t any customers left. All of the goods were sold out, save a few pawprint pastries. Ziva made an extra tray that morning, so it wasn’t too surprising that there was extra. After placing them on a plate, Ziva wiped down the bakery case. From where she was sitting with Stelara, Madam Cohen called Ziva.
“Ziva, could you be a dear and bring the kettle from the stove? I forgot to grab it.”
“Alright, I’m coming.”
Pastries in one hand and a kettle in the other, Ziva joined their mother and Stelara at the table. They sat next to Stelara, then realized there were no cups. Noticing Ziva’s mistake, Stelara burst out laughing. After sheepishly returning with teacups, Ziva was finally able to sit. After
33