The morning sun filtered through the lace curtains of Scarlett’s bedroom, casting soft golden hues across the walls. It was the beginning of a new chapter in her life, and the weight of her decision to join the military academy lingered heavily in her chest.
She had defied her family’s expectations and had stood her ground, but the lingering unease of the unknown refused to dissipate.
Scarlett walked downstairs, where the air was filled with the aroma of fresh bread and brewing coffee. Margaret was seated at the dining table, her expression pinched as she sipped her tea. Michael sat across from her, reading the newspaper, his features more composed, though his silence was telling.
"Good morning,” Scarlett said cautiously, sensing the tension in the room.
Margaret looked up, her gaze s
