Emma woke to sounds in the kitchen. Pans clanging. Voices. Laughter even.

She checked her phone. Six thirty. Too early. The kids didn't need to be up for another hour.

She got out of bed. Pulled on a robe. Walked downstairs. Each step heavy with exhaustion and dread. Preparing for whatever fresh hell Daniel had planned.

The kitchen. Daniel stood at the stove. Actually cooking. Scrambling eggs. Rosa beside him helping. Maria setting the table. Both maids looking confused but ...