In the morning, Clara stood by the window and waited until she saw Ethan's car leave the driveway, then she stepped out of Axiel's room. She walked quietly through the hallway, and slipped into their bedroom.
It felt strange walking into it now.
She showered, washed her hair, and pulled on a soft, casual dress, something simple but elegant. By the time she stepped out, Axiel was still asleep, with his nanny Rosa watching over him. She kissed his forehead and wrote a note that she'd be back soon, then she left.
***
At the outdoor restaurant, the three ladies settled into a quiet corner booth, ordered their brunch, and waited until the waitress walked away.
Clara didn't waste time.
"Stop staring at me like that, guys. Today I don't want pity party, crying, or emotional solutions," she said, folding her hands tightly in front of her. "That part is over. I want practical solutions now, like how to move forward from this mess, and how to get my son back."
