Chapter 6

The house felt emptier each day, the silence a heavy shroud over Diana’s routines. Selena’s presence had been a constant thorn, but now she was making noises about leaving. It started over breakfast, the clink of cereal bowls underscoring her casual announcement. “I think it’s time Rose and I found our place,” she said, spooning oatmeal into Rose’s mouth. “We’ve overstayed our welcome.” Diana paused mid-sip of her coffee, her eyes flicking to Ryan across the table. His brow furrowed, a rare crack in his usual composure. “You don’t have to go,” he said, setting down his mug. “There’s plenty of room here.” Selena shook her head, her smile small but firm. “No, Ryan.” “We need our own space.” “I’ve already started looking.” Diana watched the exchange in silence, her grip tightening on her cup. She didn’t trust Selena’s motives. Every word felt like a play, a move in a game she didn’t fully understand. Ryan’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t argue further. Instead, he spent the