Ruined With Me

CHAPTER 21

"I'm not hungry, Stella."

The words hit me harder than they should have. How does he always know? Am I really that easy to read? It took me a moment to gather my thoughts and steady my emotions. I took a deep breath, trying to clear my mind and calm the fluttering in my chest.

"Alexander, I bought a sandwich without tomato for you." I said, my voice carefully controlled. I waited for his response, my heart pounding in anticipation.

I lifted my head from the food I was arranging, my eyes searching for his face. The sound of his footsteps drew closer, and before I knew it, he was beside me, sitting down with his usual quiet grace.

"Eat" He commanded gently, and I nodded obediently, unable to refuse. I offered him a small smile as I served his food, arranging it neatly before him.

For a moment, he looked directly at my face, his eyes probing as if searching for something unspoken. I opened my mouth, about to ask what was on his mind, but before I could utter a word, he began eating.

I decided to let it go, swallowing my curiosity along with my words. We ate together in silence, the room filled only with the quiet sounds of our meal. Alexander took only a few bites of his sandwich before rising to return to his work.

I watched him go, feeling a mix of concern and resignation. His presence had been fleeting, but it was enough to remind me of the walls he kept between us, walls I longed to breach but didn't know how.

We finally arrived home, and without wasting any time, I headed straight to Marine's room. I was sure the baby would be there.

As I reached the door, my heart fluttered at the sight before me: the baby nestled comfortably in his grandfather's arms, both of them lost in a precious, quiet moment.

Everyone loves him- except Alexander.

Alexander didn't hate the baby, but he struggled to accept the truth that she was gone. The room held too many memories, and seeing the baby only reminded him of his loss. With a sigh, I decided not to disturb their moment. I quietly stepped back and made my way to the kitchen.

"M-Mom?" I called out, my voice tinged with a mix of anxiety and anticipation. Her face lit up when she saw me.

"Now, I feel like I've gotten my second daughter." She said, pulling me into a warm embrace. I didn't waste a second in returning her hug. I missed my mom so much.

"How was your tour?" She asked, her eyes filled with genuine curiosity and concern.

"It was good." I replied simply. I didn't elaborate; I was just happy to be home. We both moved around the kitchen, preparing dinner. She loved cooking for everyone, and I was happy to help her.

"Nova, go and call everyone." Mom said as the dinner was almost ready. I nodded and first went to Zoe's room. I knocked gently and then opened the door.