Aria's POV
I glanced toward Elona, who was coloring beside us. "Because your family and Claudia..." I paused.
His eyes softened slightly. "My family is not Claudia. They pose no threat or danger to you, Aria. My grandfather loves you."
I looked back at him. "I know he does. Claudia has a close relationship with your family. I do not want to put my child in harm's way."
Damon's voice softened. "Claudia doesn't come to our house anymore. Whatever ties she had with my mother and sister, I believe they have been severed."
I looked at him, then at Elona. She was watching us, very obviously.
I narrowed my eyes. "What is it?"
She immediately looked away. "Nothing, Mommy."
I sighed. She was terrible at pretending.
Lydia laughed. She learned from you. That is exactly what you do.
I ignore
