"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?"

bed, and snuggled under the patchwork

"Goodnight, Mom."

"Goodnight, sweetheart."

around him, making sure he was warm, then

own room.

lamp casting a soft

baby daughter was asleep in her crib, cheeks

covers in invitation.

didn't answer right away.

on their little girl first,

bed and curled up

side, her cheek

He

noticing right

something was off.

he asked, voice

eyes prickled with

went in to

was still

just...

so worried

hard things

here. But he never

about it."

his brow.

sensitive. He worries about

feel so lucky. What more

kids who care about her

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

Choosing to have them, especially

on, felt like jumping

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