Ella’s phone buzzed on the nightstand at 7:42 a.m. She was still in bed, curled on her side, staring at the wall like she had been for the last twenty minutes. Sleep had come in fits—short, restless bursts that left her more tired than before. She reached over, eyes half-shut, and turned the screen toward her, it was Victor that messaged. Her stomach did a small, tired flip.
She opened the message. Good morning, sweetheart. Just checking in, Alex said you’ve been looking after him while he’s been under the weather. Thank you. I know it’s not easy. You’ve always had that quiet strength. Proud of you. Call when you can. Love you like my own. She read it twice, then a third time. The words blurred halfway through the second read.
She pressed the heel of her palm to her eye, trying to stop t
