After lunch, when everyone had finished chatting and the plates were cleared, Riley stood up and called his women together with a calm gesture.
His presence was enough to quiet the room instantly.
"I've secured a house in the city," Riley announced, his voice steady and decisive.
"Pack your things. Once you're ready, we'll head to our new home."
For a brief moment the girls blinked at him—and then excitement broke out like a small wave.
Sarah clapped her hands, Ivy gasped in delight, and Grace exchanged bright, eager smiles.
The thought of finally having a home—an actual home—after everything they had gone through felt like a miracle.
All except Evelyn. She alone didn't smile.
She stepped closer to Riley, her fingers nervously gripping her sleeves.
"Riley… may I ask you something?"
Riley turned to her, his expression gentle. "Of course."
