Ashton tilted his head slightly, the leash of the newly adopted dog dangling loosely in his small hand. His wide, curious eyes darted between Delphinia and the unfamiliar woman, who seemed frozen in place. The two women locked eyes, their faces blank, like a puzzle missing too many pieces.
"Delphinia?" Ashton's voice broke the silence, tugging gently at her sleeve. She blinked, startled out of her thoughts, and looked down at him. The warmth in her eyes flickered briefly, replaced by a strained smile.
"Yes, Ashton?" she asked softly, stroking his hair as though the motion could soothe her unease.
"Who is that lady?" Ashton asked, his head tilting toward the woman.
Delphinia hesitated. Her fingers lingered in his soft curls as she fought for a response. Her heart raced, pounding against her chest, and she could feel the tension in her muscles as if her body had locked itself into place. Her tongue felt heavy, and words refused to come out.
