Chapter 97

Sofia. I sat cross-legged on the soft carpet of the living room, Lorelai nestled between my legs. She giggled as I gently tied her tiny curls into uneven pigtails, her sweet voice bubbling with excitement. Jade, my six-year-old, lay sprawled beside us, humming a cheerful tune as he filled his princess coloring book with a kaleidoscope of colors that only made sense to him. For a brief moment, I felt grounded. This was my peace—the warmth of my children, their laughter filling the room, and the world outside fading into irrelevance. “Mama, do you think my dragon princess can breathe fire and sing?” Jade asked, holding up his masterpiece. I chuckled. “Of course she can, baby. She’s your creation, so she can do anything.” “Just like you, Mama,” he said, grinning. My heart melted at the simplicity of his love. Before I could respond, the tranquility was shattered by the unmistakable sound of heavy boots against marble. The sharp thud of the front door slamming shut sent a jolt through me,