Prologue
Five years had passed, and while Della struggled to rebuild her life, the specter of Xavier loomed, a shadow she could never quite shake. Felix was now a joyful, rambunctious boy, so full of life and innocence that it made Della’s heart swell with pride and joy, even as memories of the past occasionally clawed at her resolve.
In their new home, a cozy cottage surrounded by the lush woods of a nearby reserve, Della worked tirelessly to create a sense of normalcy. The walls were painted soft colors, and sunlight streamed through windows adorned with cheerful curtains. Michael had dedicated himself to making their sanctuary a safe haven, but Della often felt like the weight of the world settled heavily upon her shoulders.
“Mama! Look! I can catch a butterfly!” Felix shouted one
