Aria pov
The morning sun felt too bright and cheerful for the knot of anxiety in my stomach.
"Come on, Mama!" Noah tugged at my hand, pulling me toward the playground entrance. "I want to swing!"
"Okay, okay." I laughed despite my nerves, letting him drag me through the gates of Riverside Park.
It was Saturday, and the park was already filling with families. Children's laughter mixed with the sounds of dogs barking and birds singing. Normal, peaceful, safe.
So why did I feel like I was walking into danger?
"Push me!" Noah climbed onto a swing, his little legs kicking with excitement.
I moved behind him, giving him a gentle push. "Not too high."
"Higher!" He squealed, laughing as he rose into the air.
I pushed harder, watching him soar, his dark curls flying in the wind. He looked so happy, so carefree.
This was what mattered. This moment with my little boy.
