Ethan clung to Nina's shoulder for another moment before finally pulling back. His small hands still gripped the fabric of her shirt as though he feared she might vanish if he let go.
Nina smiled softly and ruffled his hair, her fingers gentle against his head. "Alright, champ," she said, her voice tender. "Crisis over."
Lucas stood nearby, watching them with an unreadable expression. Something about the scene… the easy affection between them, the way Ethan trusted her completely, made him fall into an unusual silence. He couldn't remember the last time he'd witnessed such uncomplicated warmth.
Nina's gaze suddenly shot to the wall clock. "Oh no." She straightened abruptly, her shoulders tensing. "I really am going to be late."
She turned toward the kitchen, already moving with purpose. "But first—breakfast."
Lucas raised an eyebrow, surprised by her priorities. "You don't have to trouble yourself."
