“But more than that, it’s for Sarah,” he said, his voice softening. “And for Chloe.”

“And for every family that walks through those doors,” I added gently.

He turned back to me, a look of deep gratitude in his eyes.

“Especially them,” he said.

By the time Chloe was tucked into bed, the grandfather clock in the hallway was ticking toward nine.

I stood by her doorway, watching her sleep with her favorite stuffed rabbit tucked under her arm.

Daniel walked me to the front door, the cool night air greeting us as he opened it.

The Boston skyline was visible in the distance, a cluster of bright lights against the dark sky.

“I will see you at the center tomorrow at two?” Daniel asked.

“I will be there,” I promised.

He reached out, his fingers lingering on my arm for a brief moment. “Get some sleep, Victoria.”

“You too, Daniel,” I said.

I walked down the steps to my car, the crisp air clearing my head.

The next morning arrived with a bright, clear blue sky over the city.