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Bella's smile faltered slightly at the question, and her eyes revealed a hint of sadness before she quickly composed herself. "Fine," she replied with a carefully neutral tone, as earlier today I wasn't feeling too well so I didn't go to see Dad. However, I called him up and found out he's doing okay."

Avery nodded in understanding, though a pang of concern gnawed at his heart. He had noticed Bella's strained demeanor lately but had attributed it to the stress of her job and their recent financial troubles. Now, however, he couldn't shake the feeling that something more was going on below the surface.

Despite the underlying tension, Avery and Bella sat down to dinner together. They engaged in light conversation as if nothing were amiss. Bella served an early meal with fluidity and gracefulness while moving about the kitchen. However, Avery couldn't help sensing a certain stiffness in her demeanor - a subtle hint of discomfort that lingered between them.

While they were eating, Avery m