As Ever smiled at the twins, she didn't notice Nathaniel coming through in the background.
"Honey, who are you talking to?" Nathaniel's voice rang out softly from the other room, his tone gentle yet questioning.
Ever froze, her heart skipping a beat. She had tried so hard to keep things separate, especially with Allesandro and Nathaniel, but this was different. The twins' innocent questioning had her distracted.
"I'm just saying goodnight to my babies, Nat," Ever replied quickly, trying to cover up the awkwardness. She turned her attention back to Isla and Leo, forcing a smile. "Alright, sweethearts, it's time to sleep. Goodnight."
Isla, however, wasn't about to let her mother off that easily. "Mommy, we're still waiting," she whined, pouting as she climbed up on the couch next to Allesandro.
Ever glanced at her daughter with a sigh, her heart softening. "Sweetie, it's time to sleep, okay? You can ask more questions tomorrow. Now, goodnight."
