Solace in Turbulent Times

Pietro and Sofia pulled up to Skylar and Emilio’s house, the morning sun casting long shadows across the quiet suburban street. As they approached the front door, Pietro couldn’t help but feel a knot of anxiety in his stomach. Sofia squeezed his hand reassuringly before they rang the doorbell.

Skylar answered almost immediately, a tight smile on her face. “Hey, you two. Come on in.”

“Morning, Skylar,” Pietro said, stepping inside and giving her a quick hug and a kiss. “How are you holding up?”

Skylar’s smile wavered slightly. “As well as can be expected, I guess. Come on, the kids are in the living room.”

They walked through the hallway into the cosy living room, where a large fort made of blankets and cushions dominated the space. Inside the fort, Jared, Lorenzo, and Valentina were giggling and whispering to each other, lost in their own world. Emilio emerged from the kitchen, balancing a tray of snacks.

“Hey, Pietro, Sofia,” Emilio greeted, setting the tray on the coffee table.