Chapter 53 What Should Have Been

• Bryan held her gaze for a few measured seconds. Then his eyes cooled, and he looked away, his voice sliding back into that familiar, impenetrable detachment. "I won't be in the way. Dinner is already prepared at home—it just needs reheating. Astra simply enjoys the boys' company. I'll wait in the living room. I won't disturb you."
• He cast one last glance at the three children, huddled together in their bubble of warmth, and turned to leave.
• "There's more than enough food for one more person." Yvonne's voice caught him before he could take a second step. "And Astra will feel anxious if her daddy isn't here."