…TWO YEARS LATER…
THE morning sun poured through the windows, painting the living room in warm gold. Hazel laughed from the corner, sprawled on the rug with her sketchpad and crayons, creating worlds of color and imagination. The twins tumbled nearby, squealing and chasing each other around the couch, while Amelia sipped her coffee, her expression calm and composed.
It was a simple scene— chaotic, noisy, alive— but to Amelia, it was perfect. For another freaking time in years, she felt in control, grounded, and whole. No lingering shadows of betrayal, no chasing ghosts of what could have been. Only the people she loved and the life she had chosen.
Later that morning, there was a knock at the door. Adrian had arrived, in a calm, polite, and professional demeanour. He was to take the kids out for the day. Amelia opened the door, he expression neutral, and heart steady. She had learnt control over the years.
“Good morning, Amelia,” Adrian said, offering a cautious smile.
“Morning, Adrian,” she replied, stepping aside to let him in.
The twins ran toward him immediately.
“Daddy! Daddy!” they shouted in unison, jumping onto him, hugging his legs. Hazel followed, waving a small backpack.
“Hi, Dad!”
Adrian’s face lit up with genuine warmth.
“Hey, my little troublemakers! How are my favorite people today?”
Hazel grinned, holding up her sketchpad.
“I drew us at the park! See?”
Adrian leaned down to examine it.
“Wow… you really captured everything. I love it, Hazel. You are amazing.” He ruffled her hair gently, then looked up at Amelia, hopeful. “They have been doing well?”
Amelia nodded, her voice neutral.
“As you can see. They have been fine. Breakfast was on time. School schedules are set.”
Adrian tried to bridge the gap with a smile.
“I packed the kids’ lunches too, just like Hazel likes— turkey sandwiches and apples. I figured they would enjoy it.”
Hazel squealed, hopping up.

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