Flustered

The morning sun filtered through the wide windows of the dining area, casting a warm glow over the table as Vanessa and Ethan ate in comfortable silence.

The sounds of breakfast filled the space — the clinking of forks against plates, the occasional sip of coffee, and the faint sounds of birds outside.

Marianne had retreated back into the kitchen after serving them, giving them space, and honestly, Vanessa didn't mind.

She took another bite of her eggs, sneaking a glance at Ethan. He was scrolling through his phone, his brow furrowing slightly in concentration.

His coffee sat untouched for the past few minutes, cooling in its cup.

She tilted her head slightly, watching him.

Was he checking messages? Work-related things? Or was he texting Riley?

Her fingers instinctively gripped her fork a little tighter.

She didn't know why, but the thought made something ugly twist in her chest.