Chapter 13
Months rolled forward into a thriving, peaceful autumn, wrapping the historic estate in breathtaking shades of crimson and gold.
Sarah and Robert hosted a quiet family dinner to celebrate Lily's seventh birthday in the spacious, sunlit dining room.
The table was laden with homemade treats, laughter, and the bright, infectious giggles of a happy child celebrating her true identity.
Lily blew out the candles on her cake, making a silent wish while looking up at Robert and Sarah with absolute adoration.
"You're the best parents in the whole world," Lily whispered happily, hugging them both tightly around their waists.
"And you are the bravest girl in the entire country, sweetheart," Robert replied, kissing the top of her head with deep paternal love.
Later that evening, after Lily had fallen asleep upstairs, Sarah and Robert walked out onto the moonlit back patio.
The crisp evening air carried the scent of fallen leaves and woodsmoke from the fireplace burning softly inside the living room.
May you like
"We finally won the war, Robert," Sarah murmured, leaning her head against his shoulder as they watched the stars.
"We didn't just win a war, Sarah; we built a home," Robert corrected gently, wrapping his arm securely around her waist.
