The night had stretched late, the cool breeze carrying with it the lingering scent of cake and barbecue smoke.
One by one, the children who lived on Greg's estate shuffled home, their tired eyes and sluggish steps betraying the excitement they had burned through. Tomorrow was a school day, after all.
Dylan's classmates had also departed, leaving only the children of Eve and Ellie still caught up in their games, their laughter softer now, more subdued.
Ellie approached Cammy with a gentle smile. "Cammy, it's getting late. We should head out—we have a long drive ahead."
At her mother's words, Ellie's kids pouted but obediently turned to Dylan, offering quick goodbyes before following their mother toward the car.
Just as Cammy was about to see them off, a small hand tugged at the fabric of her dress. She glanced down to find Cassey, Eve's daughter, rubbing at her sleepy eyes.
