Breakfast had settled into a comfortable rhythm—if "comfortable" meant everyone on one side of the table teasing Claude while he tried to defend his dignity.
Mio was halfway through her second pancake, the sweet aroma of honey filling the room, when Jane leaned forward with that familiar twinkle in her eyes—the one that made Claude immediately wary.
"So, Mio dear," Jane began sweetly, "how are you feeling this morning? You look a little better. Your color's coming back."
Mio smiled politely. "I feel much better, Mom. Just a little tired still, but nothing serious."
"Good," Jane said approvingly before sending Claude a sharp glance over her cup of coffee. "I hope you're making sure she rests properly this time, young man."
Claude blinked, pointing to himself. "Me? Of course I am! I haven't even left her side for three days!"
Wei chuckled, setting his cup down. "That's not exactly something to brag about, son. You look like you've been living in this hospital."
