WHEN they arrived at Astrid's apartment, he went straight to the kitchen to start preparing dinner. Kiran followed and offered to help, so Astrid handed him a bowl of vegetables to wash. The sound of running water and the steady chop of a knife filled the space as they worked. Once Kiran was done, Astrid gave him a small smile and told him to just relax. Although he looked reluctant, he didn't argue and pulled out a chair at the kitchen table, settling in to watch as Astrid worked. And soon, the scent of simmering spices filled the air.