The motorcar rumbled steadily along the winding road, leaving the mansion far behind. Roman was mesmerized, his forehead pressed firmly against the glass as the world blurred past in a smear of green. Eilika held him close on her lap, though the weight of a growing four-year-old was beginning to strain her still-recovering strength.
"Roman, come to me," Damian said, reaching out. He had been watching Eilika's posture stiffen and noticed the slight paleness returning to her cheeks.
"Go to your father, darling," Eilika encouraged, shifting her legs.
Roman shook his head stubbornly, burying his face in Eilika's shoulder. "No, I want to stay with my mother."
Eilika offered Damian a weary but triumphant smile, clearly touched by her son's affection.
"You will tire her out, Roman," Damian countered, his voice firm but not unkind. "Remember, your mother was very ill only a few days ago. She needs to rest if she is to play with you when we reach Netham."
