"Hello, love," Raylen says awkwardly from behind the door as if it is his first time instead of his hundredth or so time saying those words.
Hundredth or so time to Livia, that is. Who knows how many times he has said that to other women? Or how many women he has said that to? A dozen? Dozens?
Perhaps he even said it to that mysterious bar woman.
What other sweet nothings did he say? Did he give her any gifts? Had they been already acquainted without Livia's knowledge before their tryst?
Against Livia's will, her mind is running through all the possibilities.
She shakes her head to clear her thoughts.
"Hello," she replies stiffly, purposely omitting any terms of endearment. She pretends she does not know that he is referring to her. 'Our children are here. He could be referring to them instead,' she tells herself.
Of course, in her heart of hearts she knows he is talking to her.
