Over the next few days, I stayed at my parents' house. The security camera feed on my phone became something I checked every single day. Sophia had perfected the art of winning people over.
She fussed over Luke constantly.
And she spoiled Ellie rotten.
In the mornings, before Luke left for school, Sophia would already have oatmeal ready, a warm glass of milk waiting, and his tie neatly straightened.
"Luke, the temperature's dropping today. Bundle up, okay? I'll bring you lunch later. All your favorites."
Luke took the milk, his tone flat. "You don't need to do that. The cafeteria's fine. Just stay home and take care of Ellie."
"But I want to." Sophia tugged at his sleeve, her voice turning coy. "There's nothing for me to do here anyway. I just want to see you at work. Please?"
"Sophia." Luke pulled her hand away, his voice firmer now. "You're still recovering. Stay home and rest. Be good."
Her hand froze in midair. A flicker of hurt crossed her eyes, but she buried it quickly, lowering her head. "Okay. I just wanted to do something nice for you. After all, with Mom and Dad gone, you're the only family I have left."
That hit exactly where she'd aimed. His tone softened. "I'm not blaming you. I just worry I can't take proper care of you."
Sophia nodded and didn't push further.
That evening at dinner, Ellie suddenly spoke up between bites.
"Daddy, can Auntie Sophia live with us forever? I don't want her to leave."
Luke glanced at Sophia. She immediately put on a hopeful expression, then pretended to look embarrassed.
"Ellie, don't be silly. If Auntie stays too long, I'll be in you and Daddy and Mommy's way."
"No, you won't!" Ellie shot back instantly. "Mommy isn't even here. It's just me and Daddy, and it's so boring. It's way more fun with Auntie around." She paused, then added, "Besides, Mommy's mean. I don't want her to come back!"
Luke's face darkened. He set down his fork. "Ellie. Don't say things like that. She's your mother."
"I'm not making it up!" Ellie's lip jutted out, her eyes already rimming red. "Mommy bullied Auntie Sophia! I hate her! I only want Auntie. I don't want Mommy!"
Sophia immediately pulled Ellie into her arms, her voice gentle and soothing. "Don't cry, sweetie. Daddy didn't mean to be harsh. Mommy just went away for a little break. Once she feels better, she'll come home."
"I don't want her to come home!" Ellie wailed. "Auntie, don't go! Stay with me forever, okay?"
"Okay. Auntie's not going anywhere. I'll stay with you forever."
Luke looked at his sobbing daughter, then at Sophia, warm and tender and attentive.
In the end, he just sighed and said nothing.
