#Chapter 51: Explosive!

Aria’s POV Inviting William over after school has become second nature at this point. What started as a few casual afternoons where he tagged along with Joe has turned into something more regular. Sophia’s either late or doesn’t show up on time to pick him up, so it’s almost like William’s become a part of the routine. I can see the way he admires Joe’s family dynamic. It’s subtle, but it’s there—he watches us with that mix of curiosity and longing that makes my heart ache just a little. Some evenings, like tonight, the boys are sprawled out on the living room floor, trying to build a fort with every pillow and blanket they can find. I’m in the kitchen, chopping vegetables for dinner, and I can hear them laughing, their voices floating through the house. It’s hard not to smile when they’re like this, carefree and full of energy. The doorbell rings, and I know immediately who it is. Sophia. "William! Your mom’s here!" I call out, setting down the knife and wiping my han