Arianne moved through the room at an even pace, neither rushed nor slow. She adjusted the curtain to let in more light, then glanced toward the twins without making it obvious. Leo sat on the floor with his tablet, while Lily leaned against the sofa, her legs stretched out. They looked better—no longer flushed, more alert—but they hadn't regained their usual energy yet.
"You're not tired?" Arianne asked, setting a fresh glass of water within reach. She remained standing as she spoke, her tone steady.
Lily shook her head, a beat too late.
"Not really. Just a little," she said, moving against the sofa. Her eyes flicked toward Leo, as if checking whether he would disagree.
Leo typed, then turned the screen toward Arianne.
Okay now.
Arianne read it, then gave a small nod.
"That's good," she said. "Tell me if you need anything."
Her hand hovered near Lily's shoulder before she withdrew it and turned toward the kitchen.
