Skylar's smile widened, and he said, "Great! Let's go, then. I've got some new crayons just for you."
With Ciara in his arms, Skylar finally made his way to another room.
Spending those precious moments with Ciara, playing and engaging in her artistic world, Skylar found a brief respite from the turmoil of his own emotions and the confusing thoughts that had begun to cast doubt upon him.
However, amidst this temporary distraction, the memories of his dinner with Hugo earlier returned in full force, crashing into his consciousness.
The confession he had made and the unexpected events that followed loomed large in his mind, a reminder of the unanticipated and intricate web of emotions that had taken hold of him.
Skylar couldn't help but feel the weight of those moments pressing upon him, demanding his attention and contemplation.