Ellie’s POV
The next morning started like any other, except it didn’t. Ethan was gone before dawn. The side of the bed where he usually slept was cold, and that small detail sat heavy on my chest. Normally he’d leave a note, or kiss me softly before heading out, but not today. Today he had left in silence, and that silence was louder than anything else in the room.
The twins’ cries pulled me from my thoughts. I hurried to their side, lifting Adrian first, then soothing Damien. Their little hands reached for me, so small yet so powerful in my heart.
“Shh, my loves,” I whispered, rocking them gently. “Daddy will be home soon. He always comes back.”
Bri came in not long after with her bright smile, but the way she looked at me told me she noticed something was wrong. She helped tuck Adria
