MARIE

I turned back toward Claire, my left hand instinctively shifting as I tucked it behind my side.

The weight of the diamond ring against my finger felt like a secret burning hole, a physical manifestation of a promise I wasn't quite ready to voice aloud.

Before Claire could fixate on it, I scooped her up into my arms.

She squealed in delight, wrapping her small, sticky hands around my neck as I stood, my pulse quickening.

Yelena followed us, her eyes reflecting the soft, warm light of ...