Chapter 8
Months passed in peace.
Leo turned nine.
Elena threw him a party. Not a fancy, cold display like that day at the mansion. But warm. Full of laughter. Friends he chose himself.
He stood by the cake—this time, smiling, happy, respected.
No one called him names. No one laughed at him.
He looked at Elena. Then at Mara.
"I have two moms," he told his friends. "And they're the best in the world."
Elena’s heart swelled until it felt like it might burst.
Later that night, after the guests had gone, Leo fell asleep on the sofa between them.
Elena covered him gently with a blanket.
"He is perfect," Mara whispered.
"He is," Elena agreed. "And he is ours. Forever."
She looked at Mara.
"You know... I never thought I could forgive anyone for what happened. But you... you loved him. You kept him safe. And I can't imagine my life without either of you."
Mara reached out and took her hand.
"I was so afraid you would send me away," she admitted.
Elena shook her head.
"I could never. You are the only reason I found him. You are the reason he is good and kind. You are family, Mara."
May you like
Mara squeezed her hand.
"Family," she repeated.
