After touring around her house, I felt a bit disappointed. There wasn't even a pair of men's slippers in her place.

I suspect she had tidied up since it took her two hours to come and pick us up. It was enough time for her to hide any evidence. I figured she had thought things through.

Ivanna prepared a few snacks for Ava, perhaps because she sensed how distracted I was. She then turned on the TV, played a cartoon, and sat beside me. Soon after, she began to scrutinize me, making me feel uncomfortable.

Then, she patted my hand, saying, "Let it out."

My heart raced, and I looked at her defensively while withdrawing my hand. "Let what out?"

"Share what's on your mind," Ivanna encouraged as if trying to coax me.

I sneered before saying, "What's on my mind? What do you mean?"

I saw her mouth twitch. After a moment of silence, she stood up abruptly. "You stay here and play with Ava. I'll make something for you two to eat."

After removing her coat and changing clothes, she went into