Keeping Secrets

"No!" Zara's voice was sharp, final.

Ethan's smirk faded instantly. The twins' faces crumpled in disappointment.

"But why, Mama?" Ella whined, her small hands gripping Zara's wrist.

Zara exhaled, running a hand down her face. She gestured toward Nana, signalling her to take the kids to the car despite their protests.

Ethan stepped forward, but before he could grab Ezra, Zara caught his wrist in a firm grip.

"This isn't Chicago, Ethan," she warned, voice low. "One more move, and I will make a scene."

Ethan's fingers twitched. His jaw ticked. Then, slowly, his lips curled into a forced smile.

He crouched slightly, waving at the twins as they were led away. "See you soon, my loves," he said softly, his eyes lingering on them until they disappeared from view.

The second they were out of sight, he yanked his wrist free, turning back to Zara with a cold glare.