CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY EIGHT - The Final Apology

When she did join them for movie nights or dinners, she was attentive and engaged, asking thoughtful questions about their day and sharing her own progress with job hunting and therapy sessions. One Saturday morning, Lucas came downstairs to find Lydia had prepared a elaborate breakfast spread. "What's all this?" he asked, surprised. Lydia grinned. "I overheard you and Ella talking about how you missed your Saturday morning breakfasts together. I thought I'd set this up for you two and then make myself scarce for a few hours. Give you some quality time." Lucas was touched by her consideration. "That's incredibly thoughtful, Lydia. Thank you." As Lydia prepared to head out for a walk, Ella caught her arm. "Why don't you join us?" she offered. "We'd love to have you." The three of them sat down to a leisurely breakfast, filled with easy conversation and laughter. It was a moment that crystallized how far they'd come in repairing their relationships. As the three-month mark approach