Chapter 44

Katie Winters had the kind of laugh that filled a room—warm, genuine, without pretense. Emma found herself smiling in response as Katie described her five-year-old’s recent dinosaur obsession.

“He corrects the museum guides,” Katie said, eyes crinkling with amusement. “They’re very patient with him.”

They sat in a quiet corner of a café near Massachusetts General, where Katie worked as a pediatric nurse. For their first meeting, Emma had suggested somewhere casual rather than the sterile agency offices.

“Your children are adorable,” Emma said, admiring photos on Katie’s phone—a boy with a gap-toothed grin and a slightly older girl with serious eyes and wild curls.

“They’re my everything,” Katie said simply. “Which is part of why I want to do this. Having them changed my life in all the best ways.”

Alek, who had been quietly observing the exchange, leaned forward. “And your husband supports your decision?”

“Tim’s completely on board,” Katie nodded.