"W-What do you mean?" she stammered, tightening her hold on Cesario as the man averted his gaze and turned to leave.

"Be in my room. Five minutes," he muttered, disappearing behind the closing door.

She sucked in a trembling breath and held Cesario close. His chin quivered, tears brimming in his eyes. The sight of him this shaken made her heart stumble.

Cupping his cheek, she whispered softly, "You're okay, sweetheart. I'm right here. Everything’s fine." He sniffled, blinking rapidly, his ...