His Unconditional Love

As the food arrives, I try to set the table and create a cozy little moment for us, but Avery and Madison are restless and cranky. Madison crosses her arms, pouting, while Avery pokes at his fries without eating.

"Avery, honey, what's wrong?" 

I ask, trying to keep my tone gentle.

He huffs, barely looking at me. 

"Why did we have to leave home, Mommy? I don't like this place. And why isn't Dad here?"

Madison chimes in, her voice whiny, 

"I don't like this hotel, and I don't want to stay here! I want to go home!"

I take a deep breath, fighting the urge to sigh. I knew this would be hard on them, but it hurts more than I expected. 

"I know, sweethearts. I know this is different, and it feels strange. But we're just here for a little while so we can have some space and be together, just the three of us."

"But why?" 

Madison insists, pushing her plate away dramatically.