88. Go Home

A few hours later, Riley moved toward the garden where Tiffany and Lucas were, according to Mrs. Caldwell. She could hear their laughter as soon as she opened the back door, and her mood lifted.

"Can I join you?" she chirped as she saw them playing catch.

Tiffany's eyes sparkled with delight while Lucas' grin spread wide beneath his freckles. "Sure!" they chimed in unison, welcoming her into their circle.

The air was alive with the sound of their laughter as Riley slipped seamlessly into their game. She scooped up the ball with surprising grace, muscles coiling and releasing with each throw, her athletic build finding its purpose in the simple joy of the moment.

"Wow! You are so good at this!" Tiffany exclaimed.

"I played softball in high school." Riley giggled. "I was very good at that."

As the ball exchanged hands, zipping from Riley to Tiffany, then rocketing towards Lucas.

River watched from the patio, and his eyes softened at the sight. But the warmth that flickered in his chest