CHAPTER 338

Sophia’s POV

When Reese and I finally made it back home, I took a moment to appreciate our new house. It was a cozy, modern space with large windows that let in plenty of sunlight. The open-plan living area was decorated with comfortable furniture and a few family photos scattered around. The garden out back was lush and green, with a small play area where Reese spent her afternoons lost in imaginative play.

Reese darted outside as soon as we got in, her little feet already running toward the swing set and the sandbox. I watched her with a grin, loving the way she laughed.

I headed to the kitchen to start on dinner, the aroma of sautéing vegetables and herbs soon filling the air. I was deep in concentration, chopping and slicing ingredients, when Elijah finally walked through the door.

“Hey there,” he said, pressing a soft kiss to my cheek as he set his keys on the counter. “How was your day?”

“It was good,” I replied, trying to keep my voice casual despite the weight of the conversa