At first, Sofia assumed Clara knew exactly who Axiel was.The way they interacted was natural and so instinctive. But as the hours passed, it became clear that her sister truly had no idea. The realization left Sofia both relieved and unsettled. But, watching them laugh together, she decided not to dwell on the truth. For now, it was enough that they were together again and got along so well.
***
By the time they returned to the Ashford estate that afternoon, Axiel was practically vibrating with excitement. He burst through the front door and launched straight into a breathless chatter to Robert and Margaret who were sitting in the living room.
"And then we saw a real lion! And the zookeeper told me the giraffe's tongue is this long" he stretched his arms as wide "and we had ice cream, and the penguins kept jumping in and out of the water like" He made a splashing noise, his hands flapping to mimic flippers.
The Ashfords exchanged a glance, smiles tugging at their mouths. Seeing Clara and Axiel getting along so naturally warmed something deep in both of them.
"It was the best day of my life!" Axiel declared dramatically, throwing his arms around Clara's waist in a fierce hug.
She bent to smooth his hair, her smile soft. "I'm glad you had fun." Then she excused herself, slipping upstairs to their bedroom to freshen up and rest.
Ethan was resting in their bedroom since he had not slept much the previous night. He was startled when she entered, and there was an awkward moment before she ran to the bathroom. When she disappeared from his view, he lingered for a moment, his gaze following the bathroom door, then he rose and made his way to the study, closing the door behind him. He wanted to give her space.