Chapter 544

Leo had always been mature beyond his years—thoughtful, composed, and the kind of child who never caused a scene or wandered off without a word. That was precisely why Eleanor had felt no hesitation in letting him go to the restroom alone. But now… “Why isn’t Leo back yet?” Even Lilly, usually carefree and preoccupied with her food, suddenly sensed something was off. Her brow furrowed as she glanced toward the restaurant’s entrance. “If he doesn’t come back soon…” she grumbled, puffing up her cheeks indignantly, “I’m seriously gonna eat all his food!” Eleanor, however, didn’t respond. A knot of unease had already started to form in her chest. Something didn’t feel right. Her instincts—a mother’s instincts—were rarely wrong. Without a word, she rose from her seat. Her movements were brisk, deliberate. She walked over to Lilly and gently scooped her into her arms. “Mommy?” Lilly blinked in confusion, surprised by the sudden urgency in her mother’s movements. “We’re not eating yet, sweeth