Chapter 39 A New Beginning

• The sun dipped low behind the lake, casting a golden haze across the water. The lake house glowed with soft light, the windows catching the amber hues of evening. Inside, laughter echoed from the living room where the twins were sprawled on the floor with puzzles and snacks.
• Emma sat curled on the couch with her legs tucked beneath her, the engagement ring still glinting on her finger like a secret come to life. She hadn’t stopped glancing at it. Touching it. Smiling like a fool.
• Lucas walked in with two steaming mugs of tea, the bandage on his arm now neatly redressed. He handed one to her, then sat beside her with a satisfied sigh.