"This car is on toddler settings," grumbled Stefan as he drove Annette's Hyundai Ioniq.
Anna was sitting in the front passenger seat, staring forlornly out the window.
"I wasn't trying to make Mikaela upset," she said finally.
"I know you didn't sweetie," said Stefan, trying to reassure her.
"But, it felt nice. Holding Ms. Petra's hand felt nice," said Anna.
"I know, Anna. I'm not exactly a good substitute for your mom. I miss her too, quite a lot," said Stefan.
He finally arrived at the house, and buzzed open the gates.
"Daddy? Can we go somewhere tomorrow? Just the two of us?" asked Anna, as they entered the house.
"Of course sweetie," said Stefan.
Feeling much better, Anna went upstairs to shower and change.
---
"Mikaela? I've made some tea," said Annette, as Mikaela came down to the living room after her shower.
"Thanks, Mom," said Mikaela, inhaling the warming scent of Earl Grey.
Annette sat opposite Mikaela, and looked into her own steaming cup.
