Every Time I Cooked, the Food Vanished
1. Love Through Cooking
For twenty-five years, Doris “expressed love through her cooking.”
Her kitchen was the heart of the home, where family gathered each Sunday
for her stews and bread, sharing both food and affection.
2. Hidden Betrayal
Over time, Doris noticed meals disappearing overnight.
One rainy evening, she discovered her sister-in-law Marian packing her dishes,
claiming Alan said it was fine. For Doris, those words — “just food” —
cut deeply, because her cooking symbolized devotion, not sustenance.
3. Heartbreak and Recognition
When Doris confronted Alan, he dismissed her feelings,
revealing that years of quiet care had been taken for granted.
Her kitchen, once joyful, became a reminder of emotional neglect.
4. Reclaiming Life
Doris left for her daughter’s home, focusing on self-respect.
Now, in her sunlit apartment, she cooks for pleasure, freedom,
and friends, keeping a note on the fridge:
“Love should be appreciated, not taken for granted.”
