73 Am I Okay?

(Winona)

Jayden pulls up in the driveway with Bobby and Sarah in the backseat. They both look a little more at ease now, clutching small shopping bags filled with new clothes and a few beach toys.

I meet them at the door, Abby holding my hand and bouncing with excitement.

“Did you guys have fun shopping?” I ask, trying to keep my tone light.

Bobby nods, a shy smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah, it was cool. I got a Lakers cap.”

“I don’t doubt that with Jayden.”

Sarah peeks out from behind Bobby, her eyes wide with curiosity. “I got a new dress,” she says softly, showing me the bright yellow fabric peeking out of the bag. “And a pink swimsuit.”

“That’s wonderful, Sarah,” I say, giving her a warm smile. “We’re going to have a great time at the beach house.”

Jayden unloads the car and we all pile into his SUV. The drive to the beach house is filled with the sound of the kids chattering excitedly and the gentle hum of the radio. The tension from earlier starts to ease as we pull into the d