The park was alive with laughter and the scent of fresh grass, the sun warm above as Liam kicked his soccer ball across the field, giggling as Adrian chased him.
Bella watched from a bench, a soft smile on her lips, coffee in hand.
It was a small, ordinary moment, but it felt like everything she’d ever wanted.
Adrian scooped Liam up, spinning him in the air, Liam’s laughter ringing out, clear and bright.
This is what family feels like, Bella thought, her heart swelling with a warmth she hadn’t let herself feel in years.
Stepping into Her Role
After the game, they settled on a picnic blanket, Bella passing out sandwiches as Liam chattered about his soccer goals.
Adrian leaned back on one arm, looking at Bella with a softness that made her cheeks warm.
“What?” she asked, raising an e
