The morning sunlight filtered softly through the cream-colored curtains, wrapping the room in a glow that made everything feel just a little less heavy. Ava woke to the sound of birds outside and the gentle creak of floorboards as Rosa moved through the house. The air was scented faintly with toast and warm milk Lily’s usual breakfast.

Ava blinked against the light, her body still weary from the long, sleepless night. She’d stayed up after Damien left, staring at the ceiling, reliving every word, every breath between them. But somehow, despite the turmoil inside her, she’d managed to fall asleep curled up on the couch.

She stretched slowly, rubbing the...