The house is modest but warm and filled with life. Soft light filters through the curtains. Toys are scattered in a corner. A framed photo of Marcus and Tim as kids sits on a shelf. His wife Ann helps Ada take off her jacket. Her arms are still lightly bandaged but healing.
Aunt Ann
*gently*
There we go, sweetheart. You’re getting stronger every day.
Adaline
*quietly*
Thank you Aunt Ann.
Elora rushes into the room, full of energy. She pauses when she sees Ada, then breaks into a big smile.
Elora
Ada! Come see my new dollhouse! It has lights!
Adaline
Okay… but only if you help me name one of the dolls.
They giggle and run off to the play corner. Tim stands in the hallway, watching with a faint smile and tired eyes. He steps into the kitchen where Ann is preparing tea.
Timothy
She didn’t ask about Anna or Ava today…
Aunt Ann
*softly*
She’s still processing it in her own way. She’s just six, Tim. Let her feel safe for now.
Timothy
I keep wondering if I’m doing enough. I’m not Marcus…
Aunt Ann
*touches his hand*
No, you’re not. But you’re here. You held everything together when it all fell apart. That’s enough.
Back in the living room, Ada and Elora are placing tiny dolls into the dollhouse.
Adaline
*carefully*
This one’s the papa. He keeps the house safe. And this one is the big sister. That’s me.
Elora
And this one can be my mummy! We can all live in the same house!
Ada looks up at her, a flicker of something warm sparking in her eyes.
Adaline
*softly*
Yeah… we’re all in the same house now.
Tim and Ann watch them from the kitchen doorway—hope beginning to bloom amidst grief.
Comments
Lucas Bacon
getting the chills of excitement
2025-06-05
1