CHAPTER 269

ONE YEAR LATER

A year had passed since William and I had gotten engaged, and in that time, life had taken on a new glow, filled with moments that made me believe in happiness again.

From the beginning, William never once tried to overshadow Leon’s place in my heart. He knew how deeply that history had shaped me, and he respected it in a way that felt both genuine and reassuring. He had his own unique way of loving me, and day by day, he proved himself, not only as a loving partner to me but as a devoted father figure to Lucas.

With William, I had been given space to heal, to laugh, and to slowly open myself up again. Our relationship grew beautifully, with no rush or pressure—just a gentle unfolding of love. William had seamlessly integrated into our lives, creating a warmth around our home that Lucas noticed and enjoyed.

Lucas had grown fond of him, and seeing them together brought me a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in years.

One of the most defining moments that solidified my love a