306 The Adoption

(Winona)

As we walk back down the aisle, hand in hand, I feel a sense of calm wash over me. Everything feels perfect—the ceremony, Jayden, the kids. This is exactly how I imagined it should be.

But as we step into the side room, away from the guests, there’s still one more moment that I’ve been waiting for. Jayden squeezes my hand, and we both turn to face Bobby, Sarah, and Abby, who are waiting with wide eyes.

This isn’t just about the two of us—it’s about all of us.

The adoption paperwork is laid out on a small table, and the judge stands nearby, ready for the next part of the ceremony. I catch Bobby’s eye, and he gives me a small, almost nervous smile.

Sarah’s fidgeting with the hem of her dress, clearly excited but trying to stay calm.

This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the one that makes us an official family.

Jayden steps forward, his voice soft but firm.

“Bobby, Sarah,” he says, looking at them both with a serious expression, “you two have been through so much, and