To Nathanie, anything concerning Olivia required immediate attention.
Her needs could always wait.
She moved toward the dining room, steadying herself against the wall.
Olivia was already seated at the table.
The moment she saw Adriana, she jumped up with exaggerated enthusiasm.
“Adriana, you’re finally home!” Olivia chirped brightly, hurrying over and looping her arm through Adriana’s as if they were the closest of friends. She even stuck out her tongue playfully, her smile wide and innocent.
“I’m sorry, Adriana,” Olivia said brightly, though her tone carried only the faintest trace of guilt. “I was starving and couldn’t wait any longer.” She slipped her arm through Adriana’s and guided her toward the dining table as if everything were perfectly normal.
Adriana’s steps were slow, her ankle throbbing with every shift of weight.
When she reached the table, she stopped.
The dishes were nearly empty—just scattered scraps and cooling plates left behind. Whatever had been “cooked specially” was long gone.
She stared at the remains in silence.
A dull ache spread through her chest, heavier than the pain in her ankle. Disappointment. Hurt. Something quieter and more humiliating beneath it.