Damian did not come down for dinner.
Ava noticed his absence the moment she entered the dining room. It was an instinct now, an awareness she hadn't consciously cultivated, yet one that had settled into her bones all the same. The long table looked unchanged, the place settings immaculate, the soft lighting warm and inviting, but something essential was missing.
Him.
She took her seat slowly, her movements careful. She told herself it meant nothing. Damian had a habit of working late. This wasn't unusual. And yet, the disappointment that bloomed quietly in her chest betrayed her better judgment when all she could think about were his words to her in his study.
Charles noticed, of course. He always did.
"Mr. Cross won't be joining us this evening, Mrs. Cross," he said gently as he poured her water. "He had matters to attend to."
Ava nodded, keeping her expression neutral. "I see."
