By the time Ruvian finished eating, the early evening sun was still streaming through the windows.
Ciela had already climbed onto the sofa, settling beside his brother, while Avina began clearing the table.
Then, the sound of the front door unlocking reached his ears, followed by the familiar creak of its hinges.
Avina immediately glanced toward the entrance, while Ciela's head shot up from the sofa. Ruvian turned as well, already knowing who had returned.
The door opened, and a weary-looking man stepped inside with a worn leather work bag hanging from one hand. His clothes still bore traces of dust from work, while his sleeves had been rolled up past his elbows.
However, the moment his father lifted his head and noticed Ruvian sitting at the sofa, his steps came to an abrupt halt.
The surprise on his face was obvious, though it only lasted for a brief moment before something else seemed to replace it.
