Day Seventy-Three…
~~*****~~
"Mom, what's wrong with my Dad?" Ethan's innocent inquiry cut through the air, his eyes reflecting a mix of confusion and hurt. The pang of rejection lingered as Nathan had sidestepped his attempt at a hug. A rift, previously unnoticed, had crept into the father-son connection.
Jane's heart ached at the sadness in Ethan's voice. Her features softened, and she leaned closer, leveling her gaze with Ethan's eye level. She also pondered why Nathan reacted that way. She wanted to blame Monica for Nathan's mood swings.
"He might be tired. Don't take his action to the heart, Sweety," Jane softly said. She wrapped him in her arms, consoling the young boy. "Let's prepare a dinner for your Dad. I'm sure he is tired and hungry." Jane held Ethan's hand and guided him inside the house. She already made a mental note to ask Nathan about his distant behavior toward Ethan.
