Page 116 of Seeking Shadows

"It's just a fact."

My throat feels strangely dry. I look down at the babies in my arms, Eleonora's small hand still clutching my shirt, and try to find something to say that won't make me feel so... exposed.

Laura watches my reaction, then sighs. "You don't have to answer," she says. "Just think about it."

I open my mouth to retort, but I realize that would only prove her point.

So instead, I take a deep breath.

And I realize that the twins are sleeping heavily on top of me, their little feet moving lightly in their dreams.

I smile, feeling warmth spread inside my chest.

Laura watches the scene for a moment longer, then stands up. "Wait here," she says.

I take the opportunity to put them in their strollers so they can sleep more peacefully.

When she returns, she is carrying a tray.

I look, and my breath catches.

"Are those mini waffles?" My voice is filled with delight, even enough to surprise Laura.

"Yes. Zane mentioned you liked them."

I stare, completely mesmerized. There are waffles, cookies, and cupcakes, all arranged in an organized, yet loving way.

Laura looks away.

"And also because... I thought you might like your comfort food." She arranges the waffles with almost surgical precision. "Studies show that familiar meals associated with good memories can make it easier to adapt to new environments, especially during stressful situations."

My chest tightens again.

Before she can protest, I hug her.

"I love you, little sister," I murmur, feeling my nose burn.

Laura tenses for a moment, then relaxes—just a little.

And then, with a grumble, she says, "I love you too."

"It’s okay," I say, still holding her tight.

"You can let go now," she says softly.

"Just five more minutes."

She lets out an audible sigh but doesn't push me away.

"While we're here, you can tell me what life is like back in that Cartel hellhole."

"Tell me about it, it's horrible and—WAIT!" My body freezes before I can stop myself. I pull away suddenly, staring at her face. "How do you know?"

Laura smiles, and it's that calculated smile of hers, which means she's known this for a long time.

"Don’t insult my intelligence, Mia. I recognize patterns."

My heart races.

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