Chapter 9 - The Horizon Unbound
As the sun began to dip below the tree line, casting golden light across the water, Kaylee stood by the edge of the dock with Leo resting on her hip.
Mateo walked up behind her, sliding his arms around both of them, his chin resting comfortably on her shoulder.
"Penny for your thoughts," Mateo murmured, watching the ripples spread across the lake.
"I was thinking about that kitchen," Kaylee said softly, a peaceful smile touching her lips. "About the moment the milk flew and I thought I was going to lose everything."
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"Instead, you gained everything that actually matters," Mateo replied, turning her gently to face him.
He was right. She had lost the toxic illusion of a family that viewed her as leverage, but she had gained an unbreakable marriage, a fierce, unconditional love for her son, and a soul that belonged entirely to herself.
