Spring arrived with invitations and echoes.
Ella held the ivory envelope in both hands, reading the gold script again.
**Nathan & Lea request the honor of your presence.**
She stared at the names for a long moment.
Lucas looked up from the tomato pots on the rooftop. “Is that what I think it is?"
She nodded. “Nathan's getting married."
“To the vet tech?"
“Yeah. Lea. She adopted Hope's sister."
Lucas dusted his hands off. “Are you going?"
“I think I should."
He paused. “Want me to come?"
Ella considered it. “I think you should."
---
The wedding was simple, held under a tree canopy that smelled like beginnings. White folding chairs. Tulip centerpieces. No drama.
Nathan stood at the altar, beaming.
When he saw Ella arrive with Lucas, his expression didn't falter—only softened.
