That morning, soft sunlight spilled across Damian’s villa. Cool air drifted in through a slightly open window. In the bedroom, Elena slowly opened her eyes. The heaviness in her head from the night before had eased a little, though her heart was still full of questions. She rubbed her face gently, trying to settle her breathing.

Small footsteps pattered outside the door. “Mommy… Mommy!” Alva’s cheerful voice called out. The door opened and the boy dashed in with Katty and Delya ...