CHAPTER FORTY SIX – A WITTY ACTRESS

"I'm so sorry about that," she said, her voice laced with guilt. Ethan pulled her into a hug, his arms strong and comforting. "Hey," he murmured, stroking her hair. "It's okay. He just… doesn't get it." "No," Madison sighed, burying her face in his chest. "He doesn't. This whole balancing act… it's harder than I thought." Ethan held her tighter. "We'll figure it out," he assured her. "Together. Now, how about we finish that orange juice and cuddle on the couch for a bit longer? Madison chuckled, relief washing over her. The tension with Andre had been unexpected and unsettling, but Ethan's unwavering support soothed her anxieties. "Sounds perfect," she agreed, leaning into his embrace. They spent the next hour in a blissful state of domesticity. Ethan finished his breakfast while Madison played with Donald, building a magnificent (and slightly precarious) castle out of colorful blocks. The air was filled with Donald's delighted squeals and the warmth of their shared laughter. Eve