Chapter Seventy-Five
Alicia's POV
Malachi was driving us to the park. The morning sun was bright and warm, and I felt lighter than I had in months. Maybe years.
I rolled down the window, letting the breeze blow through my hair. Everything felt new. Fresh. Like the world had been repainted in brighter colors overnight.
"Look at that dog!" I pointed at a golden retriever walking with its owner. "It's so fluffy. Do you think Pa Wood's Charlie would like a friend? Maybe we should get him a friend."
"Charlie is fine alone," Malachi said, but there was amusement in his voice.
"But everyone needs friends. Even dogs. Especially dogs." I was rambling and I knew it, but I didn't care. "Maybe a cat too. Do you like cats? I like cats. They're independent but also cuddly. Like the best of both worlds."
"You're in a good mood."
"I'm in the best mood." I turned to look at him. "This is nice. Just us. No mansion. No family. No responsibilities. Just a normal morning."
