A week slipped by quietly after Sophie's revelation.
The house, once heavy with tension and hushed voices, now felt lighter.
Softer. The kind of quiet that carried laughter instead of secrets.
Edward and Sophie had spent the week sorting through their emotions. It was their awkward joy, disbelief, and finally, acceptance.
Edward was glowing in a way I hadn't seen in years. And Sophie… she looked softer, more alive, like she had finally allowed herself to breathe again.
By the time Friday arrived, it was decided that we were going to celebrate properly.
Linda and her husband, Malcolm, had insisted on hosting a small dinner for all of us. "No excuses," Linda had said with that tone only she could manage...the one that was both sweet and absolute command.
So, that evening, their kitchen turned into a whirlwind of smells, chatter, and warmth.
