The incense rose gently, its tendrils dissolving into a soft, fragrant mist that settled around the room.
Mila snuggled deeper into her warm, cozy quilt, the delicate scent of sandalwood lingering at her nose. Her mind slowly drifted, and soon enough, she was enveloped in sleep.
In the early hours of the morning, a gentle, unhurried knock sounded at the door. Three firm taps, repeated three times.
Standing outside in the hallway was Forrest, dressed in a neat gray suit. His silver-framed glasses caught the warm light, glinting softly on his high-bridged nose.
At that moment, from the other end of the corridor, Howard's voice broke the silence. He was standing by the staircase, looking concerned.
"Sir, you're still up?"
Forrest turned slightly to meet his gaze, his smile gentle. "Yes, I brought some incense for Mila earlier. I wanted to make sure it helped her sleep. It seems it worked."
"I see. You should get some rest as well, sir."
Howard watched as Forrest entered the guest room next to Ms. Sutherland's, shaking his head with a sigh before heading downstairs.
...
A peaceful night's sleep.
Mila awoke feeling refreshed, a rare good night's rest brightening her mood considerably. She greeted Forrest on his way out; he'd been busy lately with talks of a new company's launch back home. She didn't press for details.
Later, after a phone call, Mila left accompanied by Howard and a bodyguard, heading into town.
The car soon stopped in front of a lavish coffee shop. Mila stepped out and made her way to a private room on the second floor. As soon as she opened the door, a small figure darted toward her, flinging himself into her arms.
"Mommy, I missed you so much."
Julian's voice was soft, his tone choked with emotion. Mila's heart melted instantly. She crouched down, holding him close, soothing him until she finally looked up at the man sitting at the table, his face filled with resignation.
Nathaniel looked worn out, his handsome features marred by fatigue.
Moments later, coffee was served at the table. Julian stayed glued to Mila, sitting across from Nathaniel without sparing a glance at his uncle, his eyes full of the joy of being reunited with his mother.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Who's Crying Now, Ex-Husband?