The morning air was calm, carrying the soft rustle of leaves across the Denovan estate. The gate creaked open slowly as Daniel’s car pulled in, tires crunching lightly against the driveway. Maya stood by the porch, her heart beating faster than she wanted to admit.

Anika peeked from behind her mother, holding a small stuffed bear. “Is that Jamie, Mommy?” she whispered, her eyes bright with curiosity.

“Yes, sweetheart,” Maya said, smoothing her daughter’s hair. “Be kind to him, okay? He’s been through a lot lately.”

Anika nodded solemnly, though her excitement was impossible to hide.

The car door opened, and Jamie stepped out, clutching a small backpack. His eyes...