Athena opened her mouth but couldn't utter a word. She had no idea how to explain what had just happened. Zaden glanced at her embarrassed expression and pondered momentarily. The air between them was stiff and awkward when Zaden suddenly turned to Teri and said, "Teri, your mom just got back from the hospital. Let her take a shower first, then she'll hug you, okay?" Hearing that, Athena secretly sighed in relief. What a perfect excuse! She quickly added, "Teri, there are lots of germs in hospitals. If I hug you now, and those germs get on you, you'll get sick." Teri blinked and asked hesitantly, "Really?" "Yeah," Athena said firmly, nodding hard. Teri's tears dried instantly, and a small smile appeared on her face. "I don't mind at all, Mommy." Her words made Athena's heart ache even more with guilt. She reminded herself that the child was innocent. Whatever resentment she had toward Maya, she mustn't let it spill over onto Teri. She forced a small smile and said softly, "Teri, I'm going to take a shower first, okay?" After saying that, Athena grabbed her clothes and went into the bathroom. Facing the mirror, she stared at her reflection and let out a long, heavy sigh. A dull ache spread through her head. How did things end up like this? When she finished her shower, she changed into something light and comfortable. She felt more clearheaded now. She'd hurt Teri unintentionally earlier, and as soon as she stepped out, she took the initiative to pull the girl into her arms. Teri was stunned at first, then burst into a bright smile. So Mommy didn't hate me after all! She wrapped her arms tightly around Athena's waist, pressing her small head into Athena's chest with obvious affection and attachment. Athena hugged her back gently as an indescribable emotion welled up inside her chest. Zaden stood nearby, watching the mother and daughter cling to each other. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips, but his eyes narrowed slightly as he recalled Athena's instinctive reaction earlier. Something felt off. "Let's eat," Athena said, breaking the silence. "Teri, are you hungry?" "I'm starving! I can eat a horse tonight!" Teri replied cheerfully. The three of them went to the dining room, where the maid had already set the table. Athena sat beside Teri, who eagerly tried to please her mother by serving her food. Athena smiled and placed a chicken drumstick on Teri's plate. "Here, eat more." Teri's face lit up instantly. I knew it! Mommy still loves me! Looking at Teri's pure, unquestioning trust, Athena felt another wave of self-loathing wash over her. She silently scolded herself again. Never drag an innocent child into the mess of adult emotions! They had a pleasant dinner. But after what had happened earlier, Teri became extra clingy. Wherever Athena went, Teri followed like a little shadow glued to her side.Even when Athena went to the bathroom, Teri trailed right behind her. "Teri," Athena said helplessly, "I need to use the toilet. Why don't you go to your room and get ready for bed? I'll go to you later, okay?" Teri looked reluctant but didn't dare argue. "Okay ... " she murmured softly, glancing back over her shoulder again and again as she left. Athena pressed her fingers to her forehead, exhaling. When she finally came out of the bathroom, Zaden was standing right in front of her. His tall figure loomed in the dim hallway, and his deep, unreadable eyes were fixed on her. "Can we talk?" he said quietly. "Talk ... about what?" Athena asked, her tone uncertain. She could guess what this was about, but she didn't want to discuss it—not now. "Teri's probably waiting for me to tuck her in. I should go—" "She's already asleep," Zaden interrupted. That left Athena with no way out. Her best excuse was gone. So she reluctantly followed him out to the balcony. The night breeze brushed past them, carrying a faint warmth that seemed to linger between them. "What happened tonight? Were you avoiding Teri?" Zaden asked directly. "What? No ... " Athena said, feigning innocence. Zaden's brows furrowed. He looked at her closely and said, "Athena, I feel like you're hiding something from me. Is there something you don't want me to know?" That was his honest suspicion. Zaden was a sharp and observant man. It didn't take him long to notice Athena's strange behavior, or to read between the lines of her every action. Athena frowned slightly. She still didn't want to tell him. Because once some things were spoken aloud, everything would change. Their relationship would never be this peaceful again. And after that, facing Teri would only become more awkward than ever.