CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED TWENTY SEVEN - The Battle of Wills Begins

"Eww, gross!" Sophia giggled, covering her eyes dramatically. Ella laughed, scooping up her daughter. "Alright, Miss Sophia, why don't we get changed and hit the beach?" "Yes!" Sophia cheered, squirming out of Ella's arms and racing towards her room. An hour later, the family was strolling along the soft, white sand. Sophia ran ahead, chasing seagulls and collecting shells, while Ella and Lucas walked hand in hand, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the gentle sea breeze. "I can't remember the last time I felt this relaxed," Ella admitted, leaning her head on Lucas's shoulder. He kissed the top of her head. "Me neither. We should do this more often." "Daddy! Mommy! Come look!" Sophia called from up ahead. She was crouched by a tidepool, peering intently into the water. They jogged over to join her, crouching down on either side. "What did you find, sweetie?" Ella asked. "Look, it's a starfish!" Sophia pointed excitedly at the orange creature clinging to a rock. Lucas gently li