Chapter 41 - 38: Family Bonding
Ellen returned to her apartment, stepping inside and setting her things down. Before she could fully relax, a small voice called out to her.
"Ellen... I'm hungry."
Mira stood in the doorway, fidgeting slightly, her large eyes watching Ellen carefully. Ellen tilted her head, giving her a soft smile. "What kind of hungry? The kind where you want food, or the kind where you crave my blood?"
Mira hesitated, looking down at her feet. She mumbled something under her breath, her voice barely audible.
Ellen furrowed her brows. "Didn't catch that, kiddo. Speak up."
Mira's tiny hands gripped the hem of her hoodie as she barely whispered, "Blood."
Ellen exhaled softly and stepped forward, gently scooping Mira into her arms. She pressed the girl's head against her neck, holding her close. "You don't have to hesitate, Mira. I told you before—I'll do anything for you. You're my daughter. No matter what, you can always come to me when you need it."
Mira let out a shaky breath, her small fingers clutching Ellen's sleeve. She didn't bite immediately, only burying her face deeper against Ellen's shoulder.
"Take your time," Ellen murmured. "Start when you're ready."
Instead of biting, Mira nuzzled against her, her sharp teeth barely grazing Ellen's skin in hesitation. Ellen smiled at the affectionate gesture and, with Mira still in her arms, moved into the kitchen.
Balancing her daughter in one arm, she started preparing a meal for herself and Miyabi. Cooking with one hand was no issue—her experience as a maid had made her exceptionally skilled in multitasking. The meal didn't need to be extravagant, just enough to keep them full until dinner.