Mila had no idea what Conrad and Lysander discussed in the study. After they finished their conversation and Felicity had rested enough, the family of five gathered in the dining room for dinner.
Lysander’s younger brother, Eugene, was still absent.
At the long dining table, Conrad and Felicity sat at the head. Lysander and his son, Adrian, were seated on the same side as Conrad. Unlike before, Mila chose not to sit beside Lysander; instead, she took a seat closer to Felicity.
Everyone’s eyes fell on Mila.
Before Felicity could say anything, Mila served a dish Felicity loved into her bowl and smiled, I haven’t been around much lately. I’d like to spend more time with you, Mom.
In truth, Mila wished to avoid sitting next to Lysander.
Felicity seemed pleased and didn’t insist she join Lysander. Lysander, however, frowned slightly but remained silent.
The meal proceeded with a semblance of warmth and peace.
Before their visit, they had agreed to leave from the family home for the Lockwoods’ gathering the next day. That night, the three of them stayed at the family residence.
…
In the old house, Mila and Lysander shared a bedroom, while Adrian slept in the adjacent room.
Mom, I want to take a bath.
After playing games online with his friend Jamie for a while in his room, Adrian grew bored and came next door to call for Mila.
He wasn’t as upset anymore about his mom’s disapproval of Jamie. If she didn’t like it, he would simply avoid mentioning Jamie around her. Besides, Mila hadn’t contacted him much lately and seemed less affectionate, which made him feel uneasy and miss her.
Adrian hoped she would come to bathe him and tell him a bedtime story like she used to. This time, he promised himself he’d listen well and they’d make up.
However, after a long while, there was no sign of Mila.
Adrian quickly grabbed the tablet, flipping it face down, and frowned, urging Mila to leave.
Mom, maybe we should skip the story tonight. You can tell me one tomorrow.
Mila didn’t respond immediately. She simply watched Adrian for a moment. When he averted his eyes and urged her again, she put the storybook down.
Get some sleep, and don’t—
She wanted to caution him about staying up late playing games but held back, remembering how much he resented such reminders.
Why bother, she thought, when it wouldn’t change anything.
Adrian watched her leave, feeling a sudden pang of discomfort.