Chapter 21. Starlit Whispers

Silas joined our hug, his presence offering comfort and support. I fought back tears, not wanting to spoil this precious moment for Gabriel. This family day had become a bittersweet revelation for me, realizing how much healing I was experiencing by being a part of this young boy's life.

"Why are you crying, Auntie Isla?" Gabriel asked in confusion, wiping away a stray tear from my cheek.

I smiled through my tears and gently wiped them away. "This is called tears of joy. I am crying because I am happy for you," I explained, my voice filled with love and pride.

As the children enjoyed their time with the teachers, Silas and I found ourselves seated inside the tent. His silence spoke volumes, and I knew he had questions about my family but was being considerate enough not to pry. The wounds from my family issues remained an open sore within me, an ache that never completely healed. But over time, I had learned to bear the pain, to live with t