Chapter 40 First Outing
The morning was bright but chilly, the kind of early spring air that made Lily tug Emma’s tiny jacket tighter around her shoulders. The stroller squeaked slightly as she adjusted it, Emma bundled snugly inside. Ethan walked beside her, diaper bag slung over his shoulder, a soft smile on his face, though his eyes betrayed a quiet tension. “This is it,” Lily whispered, more to herself than to him. “Our first real outing as a family.” Ethan glanced at her, squeezing her hand gently. “We’ve got this. Together.” Together. The word grounded her as she took a deep breath. They navigated the quiet streets, leaves rustling underfoot. The plan was simple: a short walk to the park, a chance to let Emma experience fresh air and sunlight, and to test themselves as a unit. Everything felt manageabl
- Writer
