The morning light broke through the darkness, casting gentle beams over their house, illuminating the remnants of their ordinary lives. Della stirred, still caught in a net of uncertainty, as her mind raced with thoughts of the impending journey. Part of her longed for the normalcy Michael had promised, while another part felt the weight of worry pressing down harder as she glanced at the clock; their departure loomed closer.

The house was already alive with sounds of movement. Felix’s laughter echoed down the hallway, a buoyant reminder of innocence amidst their turbulent reality. Della smiled faintly, willing herself to focus on that joy. She slipped out of bed, her...