Sunday Morning

"Cole." Eris's husky voice was softer now, laced with an undercurrent of tension. He exhaled, his brows knitting in concern. "I know I can’t force you to eat… or make you sleep. These things aren’t easy. But my hope—" he paused, choosing his words with care, "is that someday, when the world’s not so broken, you and Tuck will get to be kids again. Do normal stuff… stay out late, go to school, have holidays…" His voice trailed off, distant, as if lost in a memory. "You remind him of someone important. His best friend. They got separated when she got sick."

Cole blinked, her eyes rising to meet his, a flicker of curiosity there. Eris seemed to catch himself, his expression guarded now, like he had revealed more than he intended.

"I’m telling you this so you understand what’s coming. When Tuck finds out you’re not eating…" His gaze shifted briefly to the shadows beneath her eyes, the fatigue evident in her pale face. "And not sleeping either."

Eris fell silent, studying her. For a moment,