Aliana’s POV

I smiled, my eyes reflecting both exhaustion and hope. “I couldn’t have done any of this without you two.”

Freddy kissed my forehead gently. “We’re a team, Aliana. And this is just the beginning.”

As I settled into the backseat of the car, watching the familiar city skyline pass by under the soft glow of dusk, I closed my eyes for a moment, letting the satisfaction of the day fill me with warmth.

Our restaurant wasn’t finished yet, and there was still much to do, but in that moment, surrounded by the people I loved, I knew that every challenge we faced was worth it.

Tomorrow would bring...