The plane’s steps lowered with a soft sound, and Raya’s small feet touched the tarmac. Roman guided her carefully down the stairs. As soon as Raya saw Rebecca waiting at the bottom, her face lit up.

“Mommy!” she squealed, running straight into Rebecca’s open arms. Rebecca scooped her up tightly, kissing her forehead. “I’ve missed you so much, my baby,” she whispered.

Roman stepped back, watching quietly as the reunion unfolded. Serena, who had arrived with Rebecca, smiled warmly from a few steps away.

Raya wriggled free for a moment to look around, her eyes landing on Roman. “Mommy, he looks just like you!” she exclaimed, pointing.

Rebecca laughed softly,...