Cora's eyes darted between her mother and the door, her small features twisted with curiosity. "You're quiet today, Mom," she observed, swinging her legs from where she sat on the bathroom counter.
Elara worked the towel through Cora's damp hair, her movements gentle but distracted. "Just tired, sweetheart."
"Is it because of Grandma Eleanor's party tomorrow?" Cora asked, tilting her head.
"Partly," Elara admitted, though Eleanor's birthday celebration was the least of her concerns.
She finished drying Cora's hair, dropping a kiss on her daughter's crown. The familiar scent of children's shampoo mingled with traces of Vivienne's perfume that lingered despite the bath. The combination made her stomach twist.
"All done," Elara announced, helping Cora down from the counter. "Ready for bed?"
Cora nodded, padding to her bedroom in her unicorn pajamas. Elara followed, watching as her daughter climbed into bed and snuggled under the covers.