Chapter 44

Aria’s POV

“No, nothing,” Peter replied quickly, dismissing my question with a casual wave of his hand. Yet, beneath his nonchalant tone, there was an unmistakable edge. “Come on, breakfast is ready. Let’s eat.”

I nodded, albeit slowly, my mind still tangled in a web of unease that refused to dissipate. As he turned to head toward the kitchen, I felt an unfamiliar weight settle around me, a silence that felt thicker than the air itself.

I adjusted Lana in my arms, her chubby little hands flailing in the air as she babbled excitedly, her big, curious eyes fixed on Peter. A smile broke across her tiny face, illuminating the moment with her innocent joy. It was as if she sensed the tension, and her happiness was a balm to my frayed nerves.

“She’s probably starving,” Peter said, a genuine smile spreading across his face, his eyes sparkling with warmth.

“I’ll get her bottle ready,” I replied softly, my voice barely above a whisper as I gently stroked Lana’s cheek. “And I should freshen up too, before the food gets cold.”

Before long, I emerged from the bedroom, feeling slightly more human in my fresh clothes. I settled at the dining table, cradling Lana in my arms, and gazed at the lavish spread before us. Golden fried eggs glistened under the light, fluffy pancakes piled high, fresh bread still warm from the oven, and a pitcher of milk that promised nourishment.