The house had been too quiet lately.
It had been more than a week since the reporters flooded the gate, since Eloise's outburst and the scene that followed. But now, no drama, no tension, just long, still days. Too still, if anyone asked Lunara.
She wasn't used to doing nothing.
Sighing, she lay sideways on the couch, gently rocking her foot back and forth. Even the air felt slow.
Then came the tiny patter of feet.
Mila appeared beside the couch, holding a plush bear by one arm. Her curls were messy from her nap, and her cheeks were still pink.
"Mommy…" she mumbled, rubbing one eye with her fist. "Mila… want ice cweam…"
Lunara sat up immediately, looking down at her daughter, then reached out to tuck some hair behind her ear. "We have some in the fridge. Wait a while, I'll get it for you."
Mila shook her head hard. "No… pink chop! I want pink chop." Her lips puckered into a stubborn pout.
Lunara frowned. "Hmm, how about I call Daddy to buy it before he comes home later?"
