CHAPTER SIXTY EIGHT - A New Beginning for the Family

He turned to Ella, reaching out to take her hand. "If she'll still have me," he added softly. Ella felt tears spilling down her cheeks as she intertwined her fingers with Lucas's. "Always," she whispered. Isabella looked between them, her expression a mix of hurt and resignation. "I see," she said quietly. "Well, I suppose that's that then." She gathered her purse, her movements sharp and angry. As she turned to leave, she paused, looking back at Lucas one last time. "You know, I always thought you were just settling with her. But I guess I was wrong. Goodbye, Lucas." As Isabella's figure disappeared down the path, Lucas turned to Ella, cupping her face in his hands. "Ella, I am so, so sorry. For everything. Can you ever forgive me?" Ella looked up at him, seeing the genuine remorse in his eyes. "We have a lot to talk about, Lucas. A lot to work through. But yes, I think we can find our way back to each other." Lucas pulled her close, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I love you,