After the introductions, the older woman asked,

“Would you like anything for a snack? For dinner?”

“Not tonight, Dona Lúcia. Tomorrow you can make us something really good. Today’s just for resting, alright?”

She smiled, nodded, and left with her husband.

Thor stepped into the house, Celina following close behind. He went upstairs, walking down the hallway, and without even glancing at her, said,

“I’ll show you the room where you’ll be sleeping.”

Celina froze for a second. The weight of his words crashed over her like a stone. It wasn’t their room—it was her room. The distance was clear. His contempt was tangible.

And more than ever, she felt the ache of being far from someone she still loved.

Thor pushed the door open gently. The room was spacious, airy, with a style that blended rustic charm and warmth. He stepped inside first and set her suitcase carefully on the leather armchair by the window.

Without fully turning toward her, his body angled just slightly, his voice controlled, e