**Gaia's POV**

We split up to tackle the shopping list more efficiently.

Evangeline and I head toward the bulk food suppliers while Gina takes Nelly to browse the household essentials. We agree to meet back at the parking lot in three hours.

The time passes quickly. When we finally reconvene, our vehicles are loaded with supplies—bags and boxes filling every available space.

But as we compare our purchases, one thing becomes ...