The realization sent waves of reluctant anguish through Elissa’s already heavy heart.

Her fingers found Hadley’s hand and clutched it desperately. “Hadley, I need to request something incredibly important of you…”

“I understand completely.” Hadley required no further explanation, her expression growing grave with understanding. “Don’t torment yourself with worry. Locke is my nephew, and I cherish him just as deeply as you do. Moreover, he’s become Joy’s dearest companion. I promise to guard him with my life.”

“Thank you.” Elissa’s eyes brimmed with unshed tears as she struggled against her overwhelming emotions. “After the baby arrives, I’ll return to visit him.”

Her voice cracked under the weight of unspoken pain, the words nearly impossible to voice. “If Ernest chooses to marry someone else someday, please inform me immediately. When that happens, I want to return and bring Locke home with me.”

Elissa reasoned that by then, Ernest would be absorbed in his new life, potentially making her fight for Locke’s custody less complicated than her current impossible situation.

Hadley’s throat constricted with sympathy, her heart breaking for her friend’s unbearable position. She nodded with fierce determination. “I give you my word.” Having experienced the profound depths of motherhood herself, she knew with absolute certainty that no mother could ever truly sever the sacred connection to her child.

“You promise?”

“I promise!”

The moment their solemn exchange concluded, Joy’s melodic voice rang out across the room. “Mommy! Elissa!”

Joy’s small arms waved enthusiastically as she beckoned them forward. “Come quickly! The marshmallows are perfectly golden!”

“Coming!” Hadley and Elissa responded simultaneously, sharing a meaningful smile as they rose from their seats.

Joy handed each of them a portion of marshmallow. The entire space filled with the irresistible fragrance of caramelized sweetness.

F0r more, visit glovels.o

“Incredible!” Hadley savored her first taste and declared with genuine amazement, “This is divine!”

Just then, Eric’s phone erupted with its insistent ringtone.

The caller identification revealed Ernest’s name.

Eric’s brow furrowed with concern as he retrieved the device and moved discreetly away from both Elissa and Savannah to ensure privacy. “Hello, Ernest.”

“Eric! Please tell me you’re available—I really need your assistance!” Ernest’s voice carried unmistakable panic through the connection.

Eric responded without hesitation, his voice firm and reassuring. “Of course. Just tell me—what do you need me to do?”

“Listen…” Ernest’s voice came through, tight with urgency. “I just got a call from Locke’s teacher. Something’s happened—he’s been hurt!”

Apparently, during gym class, Locke had taken a bad fall from a piece of equipment, injuring his arm.

.

.

.