“I’ll get help,” Megan said, looking at me, desperation in her eyes. “I’ll make this right.”

I nodded, not ready to forgive, but willing to believe she could try.

As we left the house, Eric called after us, but his words were lost in the wind as I closed the door behind me. I could feel Sophie relax in my arms, the safety she deserved surrounding her again.

We drove back to the base, the hum of the engine a comforting reassurance. Sophie dozed off, her head resting gently on my shoulder. I glanced at her peaceful face, a reminder of what truly mattered.