I called Ethan countless times, but he didn’t answer.

I waited for him on the sofa all night.

He still didn’t come back, but his mother, Kayla, who usually avoids me, arrived.

She brought a lot of supplements, clearly prepared to act as a mediator.

"Elle, I heard about Cassie from Ethan. I don’t want to pressure you, but given Cassie’s limited time, could you reconsider?"

"Mom, what are you suggesting? Am I supposed to lend my husband to her?" My frustration was palpable.

"What are you talking about? It’s just a matter of Ethan taking care of her for a while. Cassie got along well with him before. Can’t...