"Life hasn't always been easy for me," Elysia said softly, running her fingers

through Elijah's hair. "I've had my share of tough breaks. But these years in the

mountains with you, Elliot, Evan, and Emmett? I've been really happy."

Elijah looked troubled, his lips moving like he wanted to say something, but no

sound came out.

"I know the cabin isn't exactly a five-star hotel," Elysia continued, smiling, "but we

have each other. That's what matters most. So, Elijah, don't get all sad thinking

your mom's had it rough, okay?"

She cupped his cheek, her touch gentle. "But I have to say, it means the world to

me that you care so much. It makes me feel even luckier."

Elijah was always the quietest of her boys, a little more reserved than Elliot, Evan,

or Emmett. Still, he leaned into her touch, almost like he was soaking up her

warmth.

Elysia pulled him in for a hug. "I love you, Elijah."

He hugged her back, patting her shoulder like a tiny grown-up. "Love you too,

Mom."

Her heart swelled, and it took her a moment to steady herself before she smiled

again. "We've got another early morning hike tomorrow, so let's get some sleep,

alright?"

and snuggled under the patchwork

"Goodnight, Mom."

"Goodnight, sweetheart."

sure he was warm,

own room.

lying in bed, the lamp casting a soft

asleep in her crib, cheeks rosy and

covers in invitation. "You took

didn't answer right away.

on their little girl first,

bed and curled up

side, her cheek pressed

He wrapped

her, noticing right away

something was off.

wrong?" he asked, voice

prickled with

to check on

was still awake, standing

just... lost

been so

how hard things

he never wants

about it."

concern etching his brow. "Is

just sensitive. He worries about

breath. "Honestly, I feel so lucky. What more could a

who care

Tarquin, voice soft. "When I first found out I was

to have them,

jumping

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