Chapter 29 - Final Peace in Virginia
Six months later, autumn leaves painted the mountains of Charlottesville in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Lily ran through the fallen leaves with her new puppy, her laughter floating softly on the cool mountain breeze.
Ethan stood beside his father on the porch, wearing his newly issued cadet uniform from the military academy.
"I'm going into federal service after graduation, Dad," Ethan announced quietly, looking out over the valley.
"I want to make sure no other family ever has to go through what we went through."
David placed a proud, strong hand on his son’s shoulder, looking into eyes that had grown brave and true.
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"Your mother would be so proud of you, Ethan," David smiled, his heart filled with an overwhelming sense of pride.
"We all survived because of you."
