The rain outside St. Mercy Hospital beat a relentless, rhythmic tattoo against the reinforced glass, echoing the frantic thrum of Katherine Ellis’s pulse.

Two weeks later, the spring sun was shining brightly over the manicured lawns of Alderton Preparatory Academy.

The drop-off zone was still filled with luxury SUVs, polished sedans, and expensive European imports. But when a gleaming, perfectly restored navy Ford pickup pulled smoothly into a parking space near the entrance, a few parents turned their heads in appreciation.

Wyatt stepped out of the driver's side, wearing a clean shirt and jeans, holding Luna’s hand as they walked toward the courtyard.

Waiting near the stone steps were Katherine and Violet. Violet was pale still, but her cheeks had regained their healthy glow, and she was wearing a bright pink cardigan that matched Luna’s jacket.

"Luna!" Violet squealed, breaking away from Katherine and running across the grass to hug her friend.

Luna giggled, wrapping her arms around Violet’s neck, the worn stuffed rabbit dangling securely from her hand.

Katherine walked slowly toward Wyatt, who stood by the truck, leaning against the polished door with a relaxed posture.

"She looks incredible," Wyatt said, watching the two girls trade colorful hair clips.

"She does," Katherine agreed, stopping a foot away from him. She was dressed in a softer, less intimidating charcoal blazer, her hair falling loosely around her shoulders. "And she hasn't stopped talking about Luna for two weeks. Apparently, sleepovers are now mandatory according to our daughters."

Wyatt chuckled, a rich, warm sound that made Katherine’s heart skip a beat in a way it hadn't in ten years. "Well, I suppose we can't disappoint the committee."

"I was wondering," Katherine said, her fingers tightening slightly around the strap of her leather tote bag, "if you and Luna might be free this Saturday. Not for a meeting, not for a delivery, and certainly not for business. Just... dinner. My place. I make a terrible lasagna, but I promise the garlic bread won't burn."

Wyatt looked at her, searching her eyes for any trace of the cold, defensive CEO he had met in the glass lobby weeks ago. Finding only warmth, sincerity, and a quiet, budding hope, his smile widened.