New Year’s Eve unfolded gently within the walls of Brianna’s home. Soft music drifted from the living room speakers, and the warm glow of the fireplace flickered against the decorations Lucas had proudly arranged. Silver streamers hung unevenly, some weighed down by the tape he had used, but the imperfections gave the room a charm that touched her more deeply than she expected.
Dinner passed with the comforting rhythm of routine. Laurel moved between dishes with quiet grace, Luke filled the space with easy conversation, and Lucas pressed himself against Brianna’s side as though keeping her close might anchor her in place. She laughed when expected, but beneath each smile an ache unfurled, growing heavier with each hour that passed.
When the clock neared eleven, Lucas tugged her hand. “Co
