“Too late,” Annabelle said with a teasing smile, stepping through the doorway ahead of Derek. She turned briefly, catching the faintest tug of amusement on his lips before his usual stoic expression returned.
Inside, the warm glow of the living room felt oddly out of place compared to the lightheartedness they’d shared in the garden. Derek placed his cane against the wall and stood still, his head slightly tilted as if listening to something distant. His quiet demeanor suddenly felt heavy—an abrupt shift Annabelle couldn’t ignore.
“What is it?” she asked, folding her arms and watching him carefully.
“Nothing,” he said briskly, moving toward the couch with practiced ease.
“Don’t do that.” Her voice had an edge now, sharper than she intended. She moved to block his path, standing directl
