Chapter 79: The Blank Canvas

With Vaughn finally behind bars, Lucas, Chloe, and Ryan could breathe easier. The immediate danger was gone, but the scars from the past were still fresh. They needed to rebuild their lives and find a sense of normalcy. A few weeks after Vaughn's arrest, Lucas decided it was time to take a break from the chaos. He suggested a trip to the countryside, where they could relax and bond as a family. "How about we spend a few days at a cottage by the lake?" Lucas proposed one evening. "It's quiet, peaceful, and a good place to unwind." Chloe's face lit up. "That sounds perfect. Ryan would love it." Ryan, overhearing their conversation, ran into the room with excitement. "Are we going on a trip, Daddy?" "Yes, buddy," Lucas said, scooping him up. "We're going to have a little adventure." The following weekend, they packed their bags and drove to the cottage. It was a quaint, charming place nestled by a serene lake, surrounded by lush greenery. "This is beautiful," Chloe said as they