By the time Claire and Harrison returned home, the sky had turned a deep shade of amber.
Sunlight filtered through the windows, casting golden hues across the hardwood floors. In the kitchen, Lana had spent most of the afternoon cooking, and the dining table was now filled with an array of delicious dishes, the aroma filling the air.
Seeing Claire step inside, Lana's face lit up with warmth. She quickly approached, gently taking Claire's hands in hers and scanning her up and down. "Sweetheart, you've lost so much weight over the years. I made all your favorites—you need to eat and regain your strength."
Claire smiled softly, though a pang of bitterness tugged at her heart. Years of hardship had left their mark, evident in her slimmer frame and weary eyes.
Not wanting to worry her famil
