As she watched him move around the kitchen, the image of two hours earlier flashed in her mind—him holding another woman, kissing her so effortlessly, so wantonly. The thought made her stomach twist.
Later that night, as they prepared for bed, Elias noticed Mira lying with her back to him. An unfamiliar emptiness filled his chest. He gently rolled her over, pulling her into his arms, his voice soft but searching. “Mira, are you worried?”
“About Vera?” He continued, his voice growing tender. “She’s just a little girl, and she doesn’t have anyone else to look after her. I take care of her, like I would my own sister…”
Mira’s words came slowly, each one measured. “You can’t just stand by when someone’s life is in danger. But I trust you.”
Elias breathed a sigh of relief, a small smile tugging at his lips. He hugged her even tighter.
Days passed with Mira often alone, as Elias remained caught up in his work. A gas explosion had occurred in an old residential building in the south of the city, and the fire brigade was conducting urgent safety inspections in all nearby buildings. Despite his hectic schedule, Elias video-called her every day.