Chapter 4 – A New Beginning
Daniel picked up the birthday cake.
He carried it to the center of the table.
Then he smiled at Lily.
"I think someone else should help me blow out these candles."
Her eyes widened.
"Really?"
"I can't think of anyone I'd rather celebrate with."
Together they blew out every candle.
The room erupted into applause.
Even neighbors who had been invited smiled.
Mason laughed.
"Guess Dad's wish already came true."
"What was it?" Chloe asked.
Daniel looked at all three children.
"That my family would finally stand together."
Then he looked directly at me.
"And that starts today."
The tension slowly disappeared.
The dinner became what it should have been from the beginning.
May you like
A family celebration.
Not a test of bloodlines.
