Elise sat curled on the sofa, her hands loosely wrapped around a throw pillow, the television murmuring in front of her. Since Diane was sent away, her life had been this way.

Not scared to face anything, but needing distractions. And the show she had been watching, offered her just enough.

Still, she could notice Alejandro’s steps from afar, when he made his way into the house. With more intention, she fixed her eyes back on the screen again as the door opened.

Alejandro’s voice was bright as he called out. “Lily.”

Elise's gaze flicked to him just long enough to acknowledge him. “Welcome,” she murmured before she turned her...