Lucian Shen awoke to an empty bed. The crisp Swiss morning light filtered through sheer curtains in Ivy's modest Geneva apartment. He rose quietly, heart pounding with purpose. There would be no more running—he had to find her son.
**Breakfast Détente**
In the small kitchen, Ivy stood at the countertop, slicing crusty bread. Ethan, their seven‑year‑old, clattered into the room in pajamas, rubbing sleep from his eyes.
“Papa!" he cried, racing over. Lucian swept him into a warm embrace. Ethan giggled, startling them both.
Ivy turned, smiling as she set the bread on a plate. “Good morning."
Lucian offered a tentative smile. “Good morning, my brave pioneer."
Ethan beamed. “Is Papa going on a quest today?"
Lucian's chest tightened. “Yes, buddy. I need to hunt across horizons—just like yo
