Ethan dropped Rose off, and she smiled, waving as she said goodbye.
He watched her disappear into the house before turning back toward the street. Without lingering, he made his way home.
When he stepped through the door, he found Jack and Elina sitting together in the living room.
Jack looked up from the holo-screen, his face brightening. "How was your hunt, son?"
Ethan set his pack down by the wall. "It went well. I made some money."
Then his gaze softened as it shifted to Elina. "Mom, I missed your cooking. Could you make me something?"
Elina's smile lit up the room. Praise from her son always brought her the simplest, purest joy.
"Go wash your hands," she said warmly. "I've already made your favorite dishes."
"Okay, Mom." Ethan grinned.
He disappeared into the washroom. When he came back, the dining table was filled with steaming plates. He ate with the appetite of a starving man, and when he finally leaned back, he patted his stomach with a satisfied sigh.