Mr. Newman's Verdict, Damien's Game

Elara's POV

I stood in the kitchen, phone still warm in my hand after calling Damien. Eleanor's hopeful expression had faded when I told her he already had dinner plans, but she recovered quickly.

"Well then, I suppose Mrs. Chen's pot roast will make a lovely lunch tomorrow," she said, wrapping the container and placing it in the refrigerator.

I nodded, grateful she didn't press for details. "Eleanor, Damien mentioned he might not be home tonight."

Her eyebrows rose slightly. "Oh? Did he say why?"

"Work, I assume," I replied, the lie coming easily. I didn't have the heart to tell her that her beloved grandson was likely spending the night with my half-sister.

Cora tugged at my sleeve. "Mom, can I have ice cream after dinner?"

"Finish your homework first," I said, smoothing her hair.