He gave a small, cruel smile. “That life is over, Miya. You should start accepting reality.”
Then he leaned closer, his voice low and sharp. “Nana already sees Hanabi as her mom now. Children adapt fast.”
My blood went cold.
The kitchen door opened.
Hanabi stepped out, holding Nana’s hand. They were smiling. Both of them. Like this was normal. Like this was home.
Nana was hugging a huge robot toy, shiny and expensive, the kind Gusion bought without even checking the price. Her eyes were bright as she looked up at Hanabi.
“Thank you, Mommy Hanabi!” Nana said happily. “I love it so much!”
The word hit me like a punch.
“Na… Nana,” I whispered, barely able to breathe. “Baby, Mommy’s here.”
She looked at me, but there was no excitement. Just confusion. Distance.
“Why are you upset, Mommy? You always like that! I hate it. Mommy Hanabi bought me this and played with me all day. She makes Daddy smile. She’s really nice.”
Hanabi laughed softly and brushed Nana’s hair back. Then she looked at me, calm and unbothered.
“Miya, don’t look so shocked,” she said gently. “I’ve been the one taking care of Nana lately. She’s just responding to love.”