The house felt quieter after Maria left.
Emilia stood by the window, arms folded loosely, staring out at nothing in particular. The street outside looked normal.
She was lost in her thoughts.
John noticed it immediately.
He leaned against the arm of the couch, watching her for a moment before speaking.
“You’ve been quiet,” he said.
No response.
“Emilia.”
She blinked, like she was just coming back.
“Hmm?”
“You’ve been staring at the same spot for five minutes,” he said gently. “What’s going on?”
She hesitated.
Her fingers tightened slightly against her arms.
“It’s nothing,” she said.
John gave her a look.
“Don’t do that,” he said. “Not with me.”
She sighed softly, her shoulders dropping.
“It’s just…” she trailed off.
He waited.
She turned away from the window slowly, faci
