As Noah returned to my side, I hugged him tightly, whispering my gratitude in his ear. “Thank you, sweetheart. You were very brave.”

He looked up at me with a smile, the kind that only a child could give, full of innocence and unconditional love. “I just told the truth, Mom.”

For the rest of the evening, the air was lighter. Daniel made a point to include me in conversations, ensuring I felt welcome and appreciated. Even Charlotte, perhaps recognizing the impact of her earlier words, approached me with a tentative apology.