In the car, Eleanor called Ethan. After a few rings, he picked up.
"Is everything alright?" he asked, his voice filled with urgency.
Eleanor paused. She realized she only ever called Ethan when something serious had happened. Today was no different… though the reason wasn't dramatic, she was emotional. Visiting her mother's grave had stirred feelings she hadn't anticipated. She wanted to talk to her daughter. And since Ethan was with Freya, she reached out.
"I'm fine," she finally said. "Is Freya behaving?"
"Yes. She's been a good girl. You don't have to worry. I'll stay with her until you get back."
"Thank you. After yesterday's incident, I just couldn't relax knowing she was only with her nanny."
"Don't mention it. She's my daughter too."
A lump rose in Eleanor's throat. She had never asked Ethan to be involved, yet he had stepped up without question.
"I just visited my mother's grave..." she whispered, her voice trailing off.
