Arlene's POV
Liana sits stiffly in the living room when I walk downstairs to prepare breakfast. The moment she spots me, she bolts upright like I've startled her from deep thought.
"Morning," I say, approaching her carefully. Her entire body goes rigid when I pull her into a hug, though she gradually softens and gives my back a gentle pat. That familiar scent clings to her, something warm and comforting. "Everything alright?"
"Are you holding up okay?" Her grip on my hand becomes almost desperate. "Vaughn never should have left you by yourself yesterday."
"I'm managing. What you did with my car yesterday, that quick thinking saved all of us."
"I'll get it repaired right away," she promises with a sharp nod.
"Let me get breakfast started. Come keep me company. Have you had anything to eat yet? Coffee?"
"Sure," she agrees, though her voice carries obvious tension. "How are you handling everything? The baby?"
