I walked over, crouched in front of him, and gently wiped his tears. “Hey,” I said softly, forcing a calm tone. “It’s okay. We’re not fighting. Your brother’s just busy with work, that’s all. He got a little stressed.”
He sniffled. “Really?”
I nodded with a faint smile. “Really.”
I held out my hand. “How about we go out for a bit? Just you and me. Ice cream, maybe the park? Or even those go-karts you like?”
His expression brightened a little. “Okay…”
Damien looked like he was about to intervene, but before he could, the butler entered.
“Sir,” he said respectfully, “Miss Camille called. She mentioned her sister is acting up again and insists that you come immediately.”
Damien exhaled sharply. “Now?”
“Yes, sir.”
I didn’t wait for anything else.
“Come on, Ethan,” I said, taking his hand. “Let’s go.”
And I walked away without looking back.
The sun was warm when we reached the park. Ethan ran ahead almost instantly, laughing as he chased floating bubbles blown by another child. I stood watching him, my chest heavy with thoughts I couldn’t quiet.
He looked so much like Damien.
Same eyes. Same expression when he smiled.
And somehow, that resemblance made everything hurt more.