The sound of Ethan’s laughter echoed in Victoria’s ears as she waved him off, watching him climb into the carpool van. His little hand pressed against the window, waving enthusiastically as the van began to pull away. “Bye, Mom!” he called out, his bright eyes filled with excitement.

“Bye, sweetheart,” she whispered, a small smile playing on her lips. She lingered at the doorway for a moment, relishing the quiet triumph of her morning routine. It had taken time, but Ethan was settling well. Life wasn’t perfect, but it was moving forward.

Returning inside, she set her coffee mug on the counter, the soft clink breaking the morning silence. Zander’s...