The twins were slowly fading away, but their father didn’t understand why. Before leaving, he installed cameras to make sure nothing was threatening the children. But when he saw the footage, he took the first flight back immediately…

She looked up, where the boys were still giggling. Leon gently pulled her towards him, and their lips met in the first, somewhat hesitant kiss. From the stairs came a joyful hurray, and the sound of little feet.

The twins ran to hug them. The next morning, Leon called a family meeting. Thomas and Carl sat on the couch, curiously looking back and forth between their father and Rebecca.

The fire in the fireplace crackled, creating a cozy atmosphere of a Sunday morning. Guys, I want to ask for your advice, Leon began, sitting next to his sons. How would you feel about Rebecca staying with us forever, as mom? Immediately, Thomas asked, leaning forward.

Yes, as mom? Leon looked at Rebecca, who had frozen by the window. If you’re okay with it, of course. Hooray.

Carl shouted, jumping up from the couch. We’ve been wanting that for a long time. The boys rushed to hug Rebecca, almost knocking her over.

She held them close, feeling tears welling up in her eyes. But there’s one more thing Leon continued after the first excitement had subsided. We need to visit Aunt Tiffany.

The children fell silent. Rebecca tipped their hands. She’s very sick and is currently receiving treatment.

She never meant to harm you, she was just deeply grieving your mother. At the clinic, they were met by Marcus. She has realized a lot during this time, he said, leading them down the bright hallway.

Just do and don’t speak loudly. Tiffany was sitting in a chair by the window, looking worn out, with graying temples. When she saw the children, she pressed her hands to her chest.

Boys, forgive me. Hello, Tiffany, Leon said softly. We came to tell you that we don’t hold any grudge against you.

I don’t know how it happened. Fiona would never, her voice trembled. Tiffany, Rebecca said, taking a step toward her.

Tiffany looked at Rebecca, and there was a flicker of understanding in her eyes. Take care of them, she whispered. They deserve happiness.

On the way home, Leon took Rebecca’s hand. You know, I think we should start planning the wedding. What do you think? Can we carry the rings? Carl immediately perked up.

And there should be a big cake, added Thomas. Rebecca laughed. I think they’ve already decided everything for us.

That evening, after the children fell asleep, they sat on the porch, discussing the future, how they would arrange the nursery, where they would go on vacation in the summer, which school the boys would attend. Ordinary plans for an ordinary, happy family. You know, Leon said, looking at the stars, I suddenly realized that for the first time in a long while, I’m truly happy.

Rebecca rested her head on his shoulder. We’re all happy, and this is just the beginning. Spring brought noticeable changes not only to nature, but also to the lives of everyone involved in this story.

Marcus reported that Tiffany was making significant progress in her treatment. Her psychiatrist noted steady positive progress, and she no longer saw ghosts, Marcus told Rebecca over a cup of coffee. At Leon’s house, Rebecca began to fully comprehend the reality.

Of course, the feeling of guilt was still very strong, but now it didn’t destroy what had happened. On one of the first summer days, the garden was filled with music and the laughter of guests. Rebecca stood before the mirror in a simple white dress when Alice…