---- Ethan, eyes on the road, frowned. "Victoria, she meant well." I stayed silent at that. But Joy, ever so thoughtful, shook her head. "I'll listen to Mom. No candy!" Sophia awkwardly pulled her hand back. When the car stopped in front of an old apartment building and she got out, she apologized to me again. I simply nodded without a word. On the way home, Ethan spoke in a softer tone. " Don't be upset. That young lady just joined the pack. She's a bit of a perfectionist, and she doesn't even listen to me. "She's got quite the personality," he added with a smile. When we got home, he suddenly leaned in and kissed my cheek. I didn't pull away. From the back seat, Joy suddenly said, "Mom, Ms. Sophia smells like Dad." ---- Ethan's smile froze. I forced a calm reply: "Of course she does. Your father's scent would be on his car. It has nothing to do with Ms. Sophia." "Oh." Joy nodded, not fully understanding. I got out to pick her up, trying to stay composed even though my stomach was churning. When I met Ethan's gaze again, he spoke coldly, "If raising Joy is too much for you, I can hirea professional. She's the star of the Silvercrest Pack. She can't fade into the background because of your negligence." Iblinked. So that's what he thought? Was my silence and tension merely laziness in his eyes? At that moment, I felt something inside me break.