Chapter 24
The first light of day poured through the kitchen windows in a soft gold wash. Birds chirped just outside, and somewhere in the neighborhood, a lawn sprinkler ticked to life. The coffee pot burbled. Toast popped. The world, for once, didn’t feel like it was on edge. Nadyia stood at the kitchen island, sipping from her favorite chipped mug. She wore one of Liam’s old T-shirts and a pair of soft leggings, her curls tied up in a loose puff. “Lunches are packed,” she called over her shoulder. “Yours is the one with the green lid. Noah’s has no mayo. Liam, I swear if you forget yours again” “I won’t,” Liam said, coming down the stairs buttoning his shirt. “Today’s the day I’m a responsible adult.” “We’re starting today?” Noah asked, appearing from the hallway with Ethan perched on his hip,
- Writer
