Ariston had been at Estella’s home for nearly a month, and with each passing day, the atmosphere grew more comfortable- almost domestic. He had integrated into their daily routine as though he had always been there. Estella remained wary of him, but she couldn’t deny that having him around had eased the burden of her day-to-day life. His presence in the shop, though unsettling at first, became a welcome help, especially when Devon’s boundless energy pulled her in too many directions.
It was a rare morning when they all sat together for breakfast, the sun streaming in through the small kitchen window. Estella had prepared eggs and freshly baked bread, and Devon sat between them, chattering away about his plans to explore the nearby woods.
Ariston, his usual stoic self, listened attentivel
