CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY ONE – DAYCARE CHAOS

One year later, the Hardy household bustled with a different kind of energy. Dinnertime chaos centered around a highchair, with mashed peas escaping a spoon and landing with a splat on Becky's chubby cheek. "Whoa there, little hurricane," John chuckled, wiping the green mess away with a napkin. Becky giggled, kicking her legs excitedly. Karina, looking relaxed and happy, emerged from the kitchen carrying a steaming plate. "Looks like someone's got a case of the zoomies." John grinned. "Always a handful, this one." As they settled into dinner, a sense of normalcy hung in the air, a stark contrast to the anxiety that had plagued them just a year ago. Becky, now a rambunctious toddler, seemed to thrive with the routine – wake-up cuddles with Dad, playtime with Mom, and evenings filled with stories and laughter. Despite the chaos, a spark of ambition had reignited in Karina. She set down her fork, a thoughtful look on her face. "John, I've been thinking…" John raised an eyebrow, a pl