Kafka's gaze shifted to Olivia, catching the hesitation in her eyes. He paused, his hand still on Abigaille's ass, and tilted his head, his voice gentle but probing.
"What's wrong, Mom? You okay with stripping down?...It's no big deal, you know. Just like at the swimming pool we used to go years ago...Nothing unusual for a mother and son."
His tone was reassuring, but his eyes held a knowing glint, as if he could sense the storm of thoughts raging within her.
Olivia swallowed, her throat dry, her hands fidgeting at her sides.
"I...It's not that." She stammered, her voice trembling with uncertainty. "I know it's normal, but... I just..."
She trailed off, unable to articulate the shame burning through her and in response, Kafka stepped closer, his hand leaving Abigaille to rest on Olivia's shoulder, his touch grounding her even as it increased her panic.
