Since Isabella was mostly fine, she likely wouldn't need to stay the night. The porridge was still simmering. Freya sat for a while before heading downstairs. Aunt Sara was in the kitchen, saying, “I’ll keep an eye on the fire. Madam, you must be tired, so please sit down and rest.”

Leaving the kitchen, Freya saw Matteo on the living room sofa, reading the newspaper. He glanced up when she entered, but quickly returned to his reading. Freya hesitated. In the past, she would have sat beside him, enjoying some quiet time together. But now… they had nothing left to talk about. She turned and went upstairs; Matteo didn't call after her.

Freya felt puzzled. She had expected him to confront her about “bullying” Raven with Johnny, but he said nothing. She had just gone upstairs when Isabella woke, looking pale, and came out to find her. “Mommy, I’m hungry, is the porridge ready?”

“Almost done,” Freya replied. She asked Aunt Sara, “Is it still cooking?”

Aunt Sara smiled. “No, it’s done.”

Relieved, Freya returned to the kitchen. After a few minutes, she peeked out and said to Isabella, “Bella, the porridge is ready.”

Freya served the porridge and was about to leave when she noticed Matteo had followed. Isabella looked at the single bowl and asked, “Mommy, why is there only one bowl? Shouldn’t Daddy eat too?”

Freya hadn’t expected Matteo to want some. Before she could respond, Aunt Sara smiled and said, “I’ll get another bowl.”

Freya hadn't planned to eat, but she always made extra. Isabella didn't eat much, so there would be enough if both she and Matteo had some. She served the porridge and quietly sat down to eat. Matteo had already removed his watch and was elegantly stirring his porridge, his movements graceful and pleasing.

Isabella took a bite and smiled, her eyes squinting with satisfaction. “I haven’t had this in so long, it’s so delicious.”

Aunt Sara smiled. “Now that you’re back in the country, you can have it whenever you want.”

“Mmm!” Isabella murmured, her thoughts briefly interrupted, but she said nothing more. Matteo sat opposite, equally silent. Isabella, however, was very happy. She seemed to think of something and leaned toward Freya, her voice sweet. “Mommy, can you sleep with me tonight?”

Freya was about to refuse, but seeing how pale Isabella still looked, she agreed. “Okay.”

Isabella only ate one bowl, and Matteo didn't eat much either. The porridge remained unfinished when they left the dining room. Isabella, meticulous about cleanliness, insisted on a bath despite her cold. Freya worried she might catch a chill, so she supervised.

After Isabella's bath, Freya hesitated before going to the master bedroom. Matteo wasn't there. She'd assumed Matteo had already cleared out her belongings, but nothing had changed since she left. Her slippers, hand cream, face cream, and water cup were all in their usual places. It was as if she had never left. Freya checked the walk-in closet; her things remained untouched.