The morning sun streamed through the massive windows of Ethan's mansion, bathing the living room in warm light. Talia sat cross-legged on the couch, sketchpad in her lap, Luna nestled beside her, trying to color inside the lines with a chubby purple crayon. Zane was on the floor, babbling at his blocks.
Ethan entered with two mugs of coffee, handing one to Talia before kissing the top of her head. "You didn't sleep much."
She took the mug gratefully. "I kept overthinking the next collection. And Luna kept stealing my pencil."
Luna looked up with wide eyes with her soft baby voice that hadn't been cleared yet . "No, I didn't, Mommy. I was drawing dada!"
Ethan laughed, scooping her up and tossing her gently into the air, drawing a chorus of giggles.
It was peace. Pure, rare, golden peace.
Until Ethan's phone buzzed.
He glanced at it casually. Then froze.
Talia noticed the shift immediately. "What is it?"
He turned the screen toward her.
