The tension between Zed and Katie continued to grow, manifesting in subtle yet significant ways. One evening, Katie approached her parents with a request that caught everyone off guard.

"Mom, Dad, I was thinking? it might be a good idea for me to have my own car," Katie said, her voice steady but her eyes avoiding Zed's.

Kit and Lily exchanged glances, sensing the underlying tension. Before they could respond, Zed interjected.

"Why do you need a separate car? We go to the same university, and it's always been fine," Zed said, his tone sharper than intended.

Katie's expression hardened. "It's just more convenient, Zed. I have different schedules and activities. It would make things easier for both of us."

Kit and Lily looked at each other, unsure how to navigate this new development. "We'll think about it, Katie," Kit said gently. "Let's discuss it more over the weekend."

The conversation ended with no resolution, but the rift between the twins was becoming more apparent. While they maintained a facade of closeness around their parents, the distance between them grew. They seldom spoke outside of necessary interactions, and Katie often retreated to her room, isolating herself from the family.

Kit and Lily decided to have a family outing, hoping to bridge the gap. They visited a local park reminiscent of the ones they used to frequent in Paris when the twins were younger. The familiar surroundings brought back memories of happier times, but the tension was still palpable.

As they walked along the park's winding paths, Kit tried to engage his children in conversation. "Remember how we used to have picnics in the parks of Paris? You two would run around and play hide and seek."

Katie smiled faintly. "Yeah, those were good times."

Zed nodded, but his mind seemed elsewhere. "I remember," he said quietly.

Later that evening, as they sat down for dinner, Kit and Lily observed the way Zed's eyes lingered on Katie a moment too long, a flicker of something unspoken passing between them.

"Is everything okay between you two?" Lily asked, her voice filled with concern.

Katie looked up from her plate, her expression guarded. "We're fine, Mom. Just busy with school."

Zed nodded in agreement, but there was an unease in his eyes. "Yeah, everything's fine."

Katie announced she was going on a getaway with friends to Baguio City. Kit and Lily hoped the trip would provide her with a much-needed break and perhaps some clarity.

"Have fun and be safe," Kit said, hugging her tightly. "Remember, we're always here if you need us."

Katie nodded, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. "Thanks, Dad. I'll be back before you know it."