Olivia’s POV

In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, Alexander and I grew closer, our bond slowly knitting back together. He was making a genuine effort to win me over—brewing my coffee just the way I liked it, holding the car door open for me, and treating me with a kindness that felt both new and familiar.

To my delight, he also stepped up with Mia, helping with her daily routines in a way that made her light up. She rarely mentioned Ethan anymore, though I knew she still held a ...