Downstairs, Zane moved through the kitchen with methodical care. He packed leftovers neatly, rinsed plates, wiped counters. The work was simple and unremarkable, which was exactly why it mattered. He poured two glasses of wine and set them on the coffee table, then adjusted the cushions on the sofa, not overthinking why the room needed to feel right.
When Willow came down, the house was quiet.
She paused at the edge of the living room, watching him finish adjusting the lamp. The sight of him there, unguarded and comfortable in the space they were building, stirred something steady in her chest.
He turned when he sensed her and smiled. "All settled?"
"She's out," Willow said. "Completely."
"Good," he replied. "She had a big day."
