This book as my witness

Primo listened to country music as he waited for Hera in the car. He tapped his finger against the steering wheel, rocking his head along with the beat. When he heard the backseat open, he snapped his brows up and glanced through the rear mirror. 

"Ready to go?" he asked Hera.

Hera closed her eyes and drew a deep breath. She didn't respond to him, gazing down at the book beside her and the pacifier she took from Miracle's crib in her hand. She raised her head, turning it to the villa where her children were staying at the moment. 

"Just a minute," she murmured, staring at the house. "Give me a moment."

Primo nodded in understanding, checking his wristwatch. He didn't say anything anymore, knowing this was what she needed right now. Just a moment. A moment to breathe, to gather her thoughts, and to wrap her heart with steel.