Chapter 23
Outside, the city hummed with midmorning life cars rolling by, pigeons flitting between benches, the scent of street coffee wafting faintly from the corner. But just beyond the steps, in a pocket of sunlight beneath a young oak tree, the world stilled for three people who had finally made it through. Nadyia stepped into that light and closed her eyes. The breeze was soft. Honest. Liam came up beside her, his arm brushing hers. “He pled guilty.” Noah joined them, hands in his pockets, gaze distant. “Didn’t see that coming.” “I did,” Nadyia said quietly. They looked at her. She opened her eyes, blinking at the sun. “He knew he lost. Not just in court. But completely. Ethan doesn’t know him. I don’t fear him. We’ve rebuilt.” “And we’re still standing,” Noah added. Liam exhaled slowly
- Writer
