ACE
I knew it was a mistake the moment we stepped inside the restaurant.
The place was too bright, too loud, too full of people who looked at us like we were something to admire. Crystal lights reflected off polished surfaces, waiters gliding between tables with rehearsed grace. It was the kind of restaurant that thrived on appearances—on curated moments and carefully arranged lives.
Ella loved places like this.
Alice did not.
She shifted in my arms as I handed her to the hostess’s waiting chair, her small fingers curling into my jacket as she glanced around, wide-eyed and uneasy.
“It’s alright,” I murmured. “I’ve got you.”
Ella leaned in immediately, smiling too brightly. “Look at this place, Alice. Isn’t it beautiful? You’re going to love it here.”
Alice didn’t respond. She turne
