Breaking point

Ever sat by the window, her fingers tracing the edge of the glass. Her children stood beside her, eagerly trying to capture her attention.

"Mommy, look!" her son called out, waving a drawing in front of her face. "I drew us! See?"

Ever blinked, her mind miles away. She didn't even notice the drawing. "Hmm? That's nice, sweetie," she murmured, her eyes still distant.

Her daughter tugged on her sleeve, her small voice laced with concern. "Mommy, are you okay?"

Ever nodded quickly, forcing a smile. "I'm fine, honey. Just... thinking."

The boy waved his drawing again. "We're happy, see? You're smiling, and I'm smiling. We're all happy!"

Ever glanced at it briefly, her smile barely there. "It's perfect, darling."

"Are you sure you're okay?" her daughter asked, her little face full of worry. "You don't look okay."

"I'm just tired, that's all," Ever said, her voice flat. "Just a lot on my mind."