Renewed hope.

Karina.

I stepped out, looking around the lavish hallways to find nobody in sight. This was the first time I was out.

Flashback.

“We need to talk.” He said.

I let him in, taking a step back to fold my hands defensively.

Despite my posture and the sound of his words, confusion flit through me.

‘What on earth did he want to talk about?’

It had been less than a day since I saw him last, and the last time he'd already stated he was here solely for Levi. Nothing explained this moment then.

“You didn't come downstairs for breakfast.” He said, making me sick in my breath quietly.

His eyes and tone didn't seem accusing at all, rather neutral and soft, but the implication was there as well as the question.

I cleared my throat slightly, trying to stave away my nerves before I spoke.

“I'm still recovering. Jetlagged and… Levi,” I spoke the last part lamely, eyes moving to the polished crib, silently apologizing for using him as an example yet again.

“Is that it? You weren't trying to avoid us?