The air grew heavy as the word "Mommy" echoed in their ears. Mila had grown up without a mother figure, and hearing her say it was a shock to both Eryx and Naomi.
Eryx immediately crouched down, a rare softness in his expression. "Where did you learn that word?" he asked gently.
Mila's big eyes sparkled as she pointed her chubby little finger at Lunara, who stood frozen in shock. "Mommy…" she repeated.
Eryx smiled again as he gently picked her up, holding her close. "Mommy is tired. Let her sleep for now, okay?"
"But Mila wants Mommy… Sleep with Mommy," Mila whined, wiggling her little feet in protest. She quickly dashed to Lunara, wrapping her tiny arms around her leg. "Mommy…" she pouted, her eyes welling up as if she was about to cry.
Lunara, at twenty-three years old and having spent most of her life alone, had no idea how to react. "Ah… I should go," she muttered, blinking in panic.
