Chapter 10 - The Cut Cake
One year later.
The grand ballroom of the Bennett estate was once again decorated in white roses, glowing candles, and crystal chandeliers.
It was not a redo of the wedding—that had been quietly finalized in a small civil ceremony months ago—but a celebration for Noah’s eighth birthday and Michael’s complete recovery.
Fifty close friends, family members, and schoolmates gathered around the central table.
In the center of the room stood a beautifully decorated, three-tier chocolate cake covered in white buttercream frosting and fresh berries.
Noah stood beside Claire and Daniel, holding a large silver cake knife in his small hands.
"Alright, birthday boy," Daniel smiled, wrapping his arm around Claire’s waist as she rested her head against his shoulder. "Make a wish and cut the first slice."
Noah looked up at Claire, his dark eyes wide, bright, and completely free of fear.
"I don't need to make a wish," Noah said, his voice clear and happy, echoing across the warm, joyful room. "My wish already came true."
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He pressed the silver knife into the cake, cutting a deep, perfect slice.
The guests clapped and cheered, the music played softly in the background, and Claire leaned over to kiss her husband and wrap her arms around the little boy who had run into her life through a broken doorway a year ago—and found his way home.
