When Usher reached his room, Mireya had just put Philip to sleep in the crib. She closed the door, and Mireya greeted him as usual—with a sweet smile, a gentle hug, and a cup of warm tea.

"You're here at last, Usher."

Usher took the tea from Mireya and drank it. Then he put the empty cup aside, making sure to praise its taste. Mireya smiled and they embraced again.

Usher rubbed Mireya's back, then kissed her forehead. "Sorry, there are many things I have to deal with."

"Is it about the pack?" Mireya asked, pulling away slightly. She created a little distance to look at Usher as she asked....