Leo slowly spooned the food into his mouth. The room was silent except for the soft sounds of his quiet chewing and swallowing.
When he was done, he set the bowl aside and clutched the edge of his blanket nervously. He lifted his gaze to Claire, his deep eyes filled with cautious hope.
"Mommy, can you read me a bedtime story?" he asked softly.
Claire stiffened slightly, drawing in a quiet breath. She hesitated before shaking her head gently, keeping her voice calm and even. "Not tonight, sweetheart."
Leo's little face fell instantly, disappointment washing over him like a tide. His lower lip quivered, his voice barely above a whisper. "But... you always did before..."
Claire's heart clenched at his expression, but she steeled herself. "Leo, you're a big boy now. It's important that yo
