CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY NINE - New Horizons 

Ella, Lucas, and Sophie made their way down the dock. The gentle lapping of waves against the hulls of moored boats created a soothing rhythm, punctuated by the occasional cry of seagulls overhead. "There she is," Lucas said, a note of pride in his voice as he pointed to a sleek, white yacht at the end of the pier. "The Sweet Escape." Ella squeezed his hand, a mixture of excitement and nostalgia washing over her. It had been years since they'd last taken the yacht out – years filled with fear, hiding, and uncertainty. But now, with the danger behind them and their lives reclaimed, it felt like the perfect way to celebrate their freedom. Sophie, now seven years old, ran ahead, her ponytail bouncing with each step. "Wow!" she exclaimed, skidding to a stop in front of the yacht. "It's so big!" Lucas chuckled, catching up to their daughter. "You were just a little baby the last time we were on this boat. Want to help me untie her?" Sophie nodded eagerly, her eyes wide with excitement