The papers on the glass table fluttered with the breeze, threatening to scatter across the patio. With a sigh, you placed a couple of heavy books on them, pinning the chaos in place. The tray in your hands balanced carefully, its contents clinking softly as you turned toward the grassy patch near the lake.

This was supposed to be a family vacation—tranquil, restorative. The private territory of the Classico House, with its picturesque villa and serene lakeside setting, should have offered exactly that. Yet, as you glanced back at Dino, seated under the wide umbrella, surrounded by books, papers, and an untouched drink, it was clear this was little more than a change of scenery for him.

He scribbled, occasionally gesturing to a butler who stood nearby. His focus was absolute, leaving no room for the idyllic surroundings. You let out a soft, resigned sigh before heading toward the blankets spread out on the grass, where Theodore sat cross-legged with a book in hand.

“Got you something,” you murmured as you knelt beside him, placing the tray gently on the ground. Among the items were a few coloring books—an optimistic choice, perhaps, given Theo’s tendency to dismiss anything he deemed childish. Yet, to your surprise, he picked one up and flipped through the pages.

Taking a seat beside him, you adjusted your straw hat as the wind picked up again, its dark satin ribbons fluttering. Your gaze lingered on Dino, his tired eyes lingered, quiet and unreadable. Still lost in his work, before shifting back to Theodore. The boy reached for the glass of lemonade you’d brought, his small hand steady as he took a sip. His sharp eyes met yours, thoughtful as ever.

“You didn’t have to bring all this, you know,” Theodore said quietly, his tone too mature for his age.

You smiled faintly, adjusting the ribbons of your hat. “I know, but someone has to remind us it’s supposed to be a vacation.”

His lips quirked slightly before he looked back down at the coloring book, his pencil hovering over the page.