Fern's Perspective
Oliver walked over to the table and bristled, as if he thought he had done nothing wrong. "As I've said many times, he's just too naughty and needs some training. Otherwise, sooner or later, his own wolfishness will crush him." His usual cold expression matched his typical, less-than-congenial demeanor, giving off an unapproachable air.
"You're too mean," I said with a blank look, though my heart was full of gratitude. At least he hadn't given up on Daniel's training, and that gave me some comfort. Even though my past had been full of pain and regret, Oliver always made me feel a touch of warmth.
"I wasn't being mean," Oliver responded nonchalantly. "I just want him to grow into a strong man who won't be easily bullied."
I sat at the table, watching Oliver and Daniel. Oliver was still as calm and mature as he'd been in the past, though now with a hint of age in his eyes. He smiled slightly, seemingly satisfied with the day's arrangements. The years had left no obvious traces on him; if anything, they had made him shine even brighter. In contrast, Daniel was full of energy, his eyebrows arched like a little angel who didn't know how to get tired. And the sparkle in his eyes when he locked gaze with me made me think of Giovanni—those familiar eyes, as if time had never changed him.
"Well, stop arguing and eat your breakfast," I urged gently, my heart stirred by something I couldn't quite name. Five years had passed, and my life had changed completely, but somehow, it all felt so familiar again—as if I had returned to the very first moment.
Daniel suddenly looked at me seriously, his expression shifting into something more thoughtful. "Mom, the interview is today, right?"
I nodded and smiled, patting his head. "Well, there's an important interview today. Hopefully, I'll pass with flying colors."
"Uh-huh! Go for it, Mom! I'm sure you'll make it!" Daniel cheered me on eagerly, his eyes full of innocence and trust. In that moment, my heart softened, and I was overwhelmed with love and gratitude for him.
"Thank you, Daniel." A warm sensation swelled inside me, and I couldn't help but bend down and hug him. "I'll try."
I gently patted his hair and looked into his eyes, which were just like Giovanni's—deep and clear. I couldn't help but be struck by that familiar gaze. Those were the eyes I had once known so well. Giovanni's eyes. I forced myself to look away, taking a deep breath to hide the turmoil inside. Five years had passed, and many things had changed. The painful memories had long since faded into the background, but the wounds in my heart still hadn't healed.
The atmosphere at the dinner table was warm and peaceful—my parents, Oliver, Daniel—this small family of mine, filled me with a sense of long-lost comfort. Even though there were still scars in my life, seeing my family so caring and supportive made me feel less alone.
"Well, without further ado, I'm heading out." I grabbed my bag and made my way to the door.
"Good luck, Mom! You'll do great in the interview!" Daniel waved his little hand and smiled brightly.
"Good luck with everything, Fern." Oliver nodded, his voice cool, but I knew he was quietly cheering me on.
I smiled softly, turning to walk out of the house. The sun shone down on me, the air was crisp, and I could feel my mood lighten. Today, I was stepping into a new beginning. Though I didn't know what the future held, I knew one thing for sure: I was no longer that fragile woman. I had found my strength, and I had a purpose worthy of my efforts. I had to be stronger—for Daniel's sake, and for the future we would build together.
Daniel stood in the doorway, waving as he watched me walk away, his broad smile still etched in my heart. "Come on, Mom! I'll be waiting for you to come back!"
"I will." I turned back to him and waved, my smile filling my chest with warmth. Even without his company, I would keep moving forward with determination, knowing that his silent support would always be behind me.
The door closed softly, and I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the challenge ahead. The woman I was five years ago—the one lost in darkness—no longer existed. I never imagined I would be where I am today: with a home of my own, a loving family, and a self no longer defined by the past.
I walked up the street, the sun warm on my face. I knew many challenges still lay ahead, but I wasn't afraid anymore.
As I walked, my thoughts drifted to that familiar gaze—the eyes that once saw straight into my soul. And now, I had a life of my own—independent, resolute, and mine to shape.
A new Chapter had begun, and I was ready for it.