Chapter 22

Alice breathed a sigh of relief as she watched her children's faces light up with joy at the news of Nathan's proposal. She had been nervous abouthow they would react but their smiles and laughter eased her worries. "Mom, this is great news!" her oldest daughter exclaimed, pulling Alice into a tight hug. "I'm so happy for you and for all of us."

Alice felt tears prickat her eyes as she hugged her daughter back, knowing how much this meant to her kids. "Thank you, sweetheart. Nathan is a good man and he loves us all very much."

Her two younger children, who had been playing with toys on the floor, looked up at Alice and joined in the excitement. "New dad!" her son exclaimed, running over to give her a high-five.

Alice laughed and ruffled his hair affectionately. "Yes, sweetie. Nathan wants to be your new dad and we all get to be a family."

Her children continued to chatter excitedly, asking questions about Nathan and what their new life would be like. Alice did her best to answer their