Chelsea lunged forward, throwing her arms around Phoebe and breaking into grateful laughter. “Mom, you’re amazing. Thank you,” she breathed against her shoulder.

Off to the side, Cecilia watched the tender exchange, a quiet ache spreading through her chest.

If only my mother were still here.

Phoebe stroked Chelsea’s back in slow, soothing circles. “All I ask is that you never regret your choice,” she whispered.

Chelsea gave a faint smile, then lifted her head, her expression turning serious.

“I can’t promise I’ll never regret it,” she said, her gaze steady. “People change. Feelings change. I can’t promise he’ll always treat me well. I can’t even promise I won’t misjudge him. But I can promise this: right now, he’s good to me. And right now, I’m truly happy.”

Hearing that, Phoebe found herself speechless. All that remained in her eyes was a fragile, silent hope.