Chapter 40 - 37: Good Company
Ellen and Belle stepped into the apartment, the door clicking shut behind them. Ellen made their presence known. "We're back."
From the living room, Miyabi's voice responded warmly. "Welcome back."
Ellen turned to Belle, noticing the same hesitant look on her face—the lingering expression of someone who still felt like an inconvenience. With a sigh, Ellen tilted her head slightly. "If you still feel like you're being a burden—which you're not—you can help me put the groceries away."
Belle hesitated for a second before nodding. "Alright. I can do that."
"Good. Head to the kitchen. I'll be there in a minute."
Belle gave a small nod and walked toward the kitchen, leaving Ellen to make her way to the living room. Miyabi was lounging on the couch, Mira curled up on her lap, her tiny hands gripping the edge of Miyabi's sleeve.
Ellen sat down beside them, gently lifting Mira into her own lap and holding her close. The child stirred slightly but remained half-asleep, snuggling into Ellen's warmth.
"So, what happened?" Miyabi asked, her sharp gaze scanning Ellen for any signs of trouble.
"Ran into some trouble in an alley," Ellen replied, stroking Mira's hair absentmindedly. "Handled it. Belle was the victim. Figured I'd bring her here so she wouldn't have to be alone."
Miyabi sighed. "Makes sense. But staying here might not be the best idea. The news is already spreading, and you know how they are. They somehow always manage to find people who don't want to be found."
Ellen exhaled through her nose. "Yeah, I figured. Any ideas?"