Mia's mood lifted, and she kissed Logan.
But I felt a pang of coldness.
He jumped to take someone else's son on a ride but made our daughter wait until he had the time.
As Mia was about to start eating, Logan stopped her.
"Wait for Bella and Harry. We'll eat together when they arrive."
It hit me then—Logan had gone to all this trouble not because he felt guilty but because he wanted to impress Bella and her son.
A few minutes later, Bella and Harry arrived.
Bella apologized, "I'm really sorry about yesterday. I brought some fruit for Mia."
I welcomed them, though I couldn't muster much enthusiasm.
At breakfast, Bella couldn't stop praising Logan.
"You cook so well, Logan. Chloe is really lucky."
I forced a smile.
In the seven years we've been married, Logan has rarely cooked.
Logan beamed at Bella's compliments. "If you like it, feel free to come over anytime."
Bella laughed, "Don't mind if I do. I'll come whenever I'm hungry."
Mia and Harry finished eating quickly and went off to play.
Bella and Logan continued chatting, and I felt like an outsider, so I busied myself in the kitchen.
Suddenly, I heard Mia crying. I rushed to the bedroom.
I found Mia on the floor, sobbing. Harry was scribbling on my mirror and walls with my new lipstick.
"Mia tried to stop him, but he didn't listen and pushed her," she explained through tears.
Bella brushed past Mia to scoop up her son.
"Chloe, Harry didn't mean it. He's just a child and doesn't understand..."
She glanced at the mess Harry had made and offered, "Tell me how much it costs, and I'll pay you back."
I picked up Mia and checked that she wasn't hurt. Then I started listing the damage.
"The lipstick is new, 800 dollars. The loose powder is 600 dollars, and the eyeshadow palette is 700 dollars."
Logan cut me off. "They're just cosmetics. Don't make Bella feel bad."
Bella's eyes welled up. "Logan, you know I never wear make-up. I had no idea these little things were so expensive... I'll pay you back once I get my salary."
What a performer! Despite her act of innocence, she wore meticulously applied makeup.
"That won't be necessary."
"Okay."
Logan and I spoke simultaneously.
"It's fine," he said, glaring at me before turning to Bella with a smile. "Chloe's just joking."
As Bella was leaving, I handed back the fruit she brought.
"Mia is allergic to mangoes. But thank you."
Bella took the mango, held her son's hand, and left without a word.