The night was still and quiet.
Elaria sat there calmly, not looking the least bit surprised.
Every time she called, it was Ms. Woods who picked up. He was always "at a meeting" or "working late"... classic signs that a guy's checked out. He said he was tired, and maybe, this time, he really meant it.
Elaria didn't push. Instead, she looked relieved to let go.
She looked up at Sebastian, her eyes stripped of any love or hate. There was even the hint of a smile. "It's fine like this, Sebastian. At least we don't have to force anything anymore. Just... the kids still need their dad around, okay?"
Sebastian's hand holding the fork trembled slightly.
A beat passed, then he smiled faintly. "Of course."
He kept his gaze on her face, watching how hard she was trying not to t
