I took a deep breath, stepping forward with Ivy by my side. “Thank you, Dolores,” I said, my voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions within me. “I know this isn’t easy for you, but I hope, in time, we can find common ground.”
Marcus wrapped his arm around my shoulders, pulling me close. “We’re a family now, Mom,” he added gently. “All of us. And family means supporting each other. Loving each other.”
Dolores looked at us, her face an unreadable mask. Then, slowly, she nodded. “Family,” she echoed softly, almost to herself.
