Chapter 41

Kaelon’s POV The small Italian bistro was tucked away from the bustling streets of the city. The kind of place where you could hear your thoughts without being drowned out by the chaos of the world. Aaron and I sat at a corner booth, the warm light from the hanging chandelier casting a soft glow over the table. The air was filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and simmering sauce, a comforting reminder that sometimes, simplicity was enough. I glanced across the table at my son, watching as he poked at his plate, pushing the delicate, tender pieces of chicken around. I had chosen a dish I knew he would like—pollo al marsala, chicken simmered in a rich Marsala wine sauce, paired with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables. It was hearty and satisfying, just the kind of meal anyone would enjoy after a long day. My own plate sat untouched for the moment, but the gnocchi with truffle cream sauce called to me. I had been hungry since earlier, when I had wrapped up the