Chapter 50. Hurt Once Again

Author's POV

The front door swung open, and Adeline and Aurora stepped inside, their laughter echoing through the quiet house. They carried shopping bags, their arms brushing as they walked, lost in a lighthearted conversation about a couple they had seen at the mall.

“I mean, seriously,” Aurora giggled, nudging Adeline.

“Who slow-dances in the middle of a food court? It was so over-the-top!”

Adeline laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

“And the way they kept feeding each other? I thought I was going to die of secondhand embarrassment!”

Their shared laughter filled the living room as they entered, but it died in an instant when they noticed the atmosphere. They had gone out on aurora’s request as they were bored and also Adeline wanted some fresh air so aurora insisted.

As soon as they entered the living room, the silence startled them. The entire family was gathered there, the air thick with tension. Luciano stood at the