Brenda observed him carefully, noting the shift in his expression. She knew she had unknowingly touched a nerve —either vulnerability or a deep wound from his past that had never healed.
She didn't mean to scrape the wounds of his past. As long as he treated Arwen with the love and care she craved, Brenda had no interest in dwelling on his past. "I see," she said softly, deciding not to press further. "Your mother must be a strong woman. She raised you well."
Aiden didn't respond, his gaze seemed distant as though avoiding talking more about the topic. And to save the situation, Arwen appeared right on time.
"The dinner is ready," Arwen announced, only to halt abruptly. The tension in the air was evident. Her eyes flickered between her grandmother and Aiden, before settling on Aiden finally. "What happened? Is everything fine?"
Aiden glanced up at her, before giving her an assuring look. "Everything is good."
