CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY ONE - Uncharted Waters

The early morning sun filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow across the bedroom. Ella stirred, her eyes fluttering open to find Lucas already awake, his arm draped protectively around her waist. "Morning, beautiful," he murmured, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. Ella smiled, snuggling closer. "Morning. How long have you been up?" "Not long," Lucas replied, his fingers tracing lazy circles on her back. "Just thinking." "About?" He sighed, a hint of worry creeping into his voice. "Sophia's schooling. We need to start looking at options." Ella propped herself up on an elbow, her brow furrowing. "Already? She's only four." "I know, but the best schools have long waiting lists. We need to get ahead of the game." Ella chewed her lower lip, contemplating. "I suppose you're right. It's just... it feels like she was born yesterday. Where did the time go?" Lucas chuckled, pulling her close. "Tell me about it. But our little girl is growing up, and we need to make