Damien's POV
I looked at Cora's pleading eyes. She clutched her phone so tightly her knuckles turned white.
"Please, Dad? Just call her for me."
I pulled out my phone. This was the first direct contact I'd initiate with Elara since she left. I dialed her number and waited.
One ring. Two rings. Three rings.
"Mom never ignores calls this long," Cora complained.
On the fourth ring, the call connected. For a brief second, I thought Elara had answered. Then came the automated message: "The person you are trying to reach is unavailable."
She'd cut my call. Deliberately.
"She's not picking up," I told Cora, pocketing my phone.
Disappointment clouded Cora's face. "But the ski trip..."
"I'll take you instead," I offered, checking my watch. I was already running late.
Cora's shoulders slumped. "It's not the same. Mom knows all the best trails."
"Vivienne is an excellent skier too." The words came out automatically.
"She's still in the hospital," Cora reminded me. "This sucks!"