That morning, Miles had made a decision that frightened him more than grief ever had. He told Vanessa he needed to leave town for a sudden business meeting. He kissed the children goodbye, forced a smile, and walked out the front door.
Then he circled back.
Now he stood hidden, listening.
Vanessa’s heels echoed sharply across the marble floor as she entered the living room. The sound cut through the quiet like a warning bell. Miles felt his chest tighten.
The children were already seated on the couch where she had told them to wait. Naomi held a small stuffed rabbit against her chest. Elias swung his legs nervously. Aaron sat upright, his jaw set in concentration.
Vanessa stopped in front of them, her posture stiff.
“Sit still,” she said, her voice stripped of the warmth she displayed in public. “I do not want any chaos today.”
Naomi hugged the rabbit closer. Elias nodded quickly. Aaron glanced up, then lowered his eyes.
Miles felt his stomach drop.
Minutes passed. The tension thickened.
Elias reached for a glass of water on the table, his hands shaking slightly. The glass tipped, spilling onto the floor with a soft splash.
Vanessa’s reaction was immediate.