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.