The cozy atmosphere of our snack time was suddenly interrupted by the sound of the front door opening. I looked up to see a tall, distinguished man entering the room. His presence immediately shifted the energy in the space - this must be Julie's husband, Elyas.
Elyas paused in the doorway, his eyes widening slightly as he took in the scene before him. "Wife, you're here..." he said, his voice carrying a mix of surprise and something else I couldn't quite place. His gaze then shifted to me.
Julie, who had been sitting beside me, barely reacted beyond a small "Hmm" of acknowledgment. Her lack of enthusiasm was noticeable, though she did glance at me briefly with an expression I couldn't quite read.
Hannah, however, was far more demonstrative. "Dad! You're finally back!" she exclaimed, jumping up from her seat. "Look who's here!" She practically dragged Elyas over to where I was sitting.
