Inside the living room, people were already waiting.
Scarlett stood near the sofa, her eyes softening the moment she saw Bella. Jason was beside her, hands tucked into his pockets, concern written openly on his face. Dominique leaned against the armrest, posture casual but eyes alert, quietly assessing Bella's condition.
And further inside—
Leo's mother and father sat together.
Nonna sat on the couch, a rosary loosely held in her hand, her worried eyes widening the instant she saw Bella clinging to Leo like a frightened child.
Jay had already told everyone about Bella's condition, so no one acted rashly around her.
Bella shrank back even more, her grip tightening around Leo's arm. She buried her face briefly against his back, then peeked out again, eyes big and uncertain.
"Hubby…" she whispered softly, tugging his shirt. "Why so many people?"
