*Aria*
The evening settles around us like a cozy blanket, the kind that makes everything feel safe and serene. The kitchen is finally quiet, the remnants of our earlier chaos cleaned up, and the sweet scent of cinnamon still lingers in the air. I can hear the soft hum of the heater, a gentle reminder that winter is fully upon us, and that it is unusually cold for Texas this year, but inside, it’s warm and inviting… just like this newfound life I’m building with Ryder.
I sneak a glance at the living room where the flickering glow of the fireplace dances against the walls. Riley and Rayne are tucked away in their beds, tired out from spending the day trying out their presents. I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment, a sigh escaping my lips as I lean back against the kitchen counte
