Chapter 99

The following morning, Erica awoke to the soft glow of sunlight spilling across the room. Julian was still asleep, his hand resting lightly over hers. She took a moment to savor the tranquility of their bedroom, the calmness so different from the frantic life they once led. Her heart felt full as she thought about the journey that had brought them here—the triumphs, the losses, and all the moments in between.

Careful not to disturb him, she slipped out of bed and made her way downstairs, her footsteps quiet on the familiar path. In the kitchen, she found Olivia perched on a stool, her little face beaming with excitement as she tried to help Lila prepare breakfast. Lila, always patient, was showing her how to stir pancake batter without spilling, though Olivia’s enthusiastic stirring occasionally sent little splashes onto the countertop.

“Good morning, my little chef,” Erica greeted, kissing Olivia on the forehead.

Olivia giggled, looking proudly at her mixture. “Mama! Look, I’m making