Leila's POV
The hallway was quiet, far quieter than the dining room chaos I'd just escaped. My phone was pressed to my ear, and Kellan's small, sleepy voice filled me with a rush of comfort I desperately needed.
"Did you eat dinner?" I asked softly, pacing slowly near the grand staircase.
"Yes, Zara made me spaghetti with meatballs.”
“Aw! Your favorite!” I cooed, knowing he probably had two plates of it.
“And garlic bread too." He yawned. "I'm watching cartoons, but I'll sleep soon."
"Good," I murmured, smiling despite myself. "Don't give Zara a hard time, okay? I'll be back before you know it."
"Promise?"
"I Promise," I said. My chest pinched. "I'll talk to you tomorrow, alright?"
Just then, a low ahem echoed behind me. The sound was smooth, deliberate, and I froze before turnin
