Chapter 16 - Healing the Wounds
A year had passed since the night of the gala.
The autumn air was crisp and cool.
Richard stood in the kitchen of their suburban home, preparing breakfast.
He was wearing a simple sweater and jeans.
The tailored suits were reserved only for rare business meetings now.
Emily ran into the kitchen, her hair neatly brushed, wearing her school uniform.
She looked happy, healthy, and full of life.
"Morning, Dad!" she chirped, hugging his waist.
"Morning, sweetheart," Richard smiled, kissing her forehead. "Ready for your math test today?"
"Yep! Grandpa helped me study last night. I’m going to get an A!"
Thomas walked into the kitchen, smiling warmly at the sight of them.
"She’s smarter than both of us combined, Richard," the old man chuckled.
Richard smiled, his heart full.
This was the life he had always wanted.
A life built on truth, love, and family.
But they had one more thing to do today.
It was the anniversary of Sarah’s passing.
After school, Richard and Emily drove to the quiet cemetery on the hill.
May you like
They carried a large bouquet of fresh yellow wildflowers.
Sarah’s favorite.
