Chapter 25

Eden took a deep breath, savoring the warm evening air and the twinkling stars overhead. It had been wonderful spending a loud and boisterous evening with her family, but she was enjoying being here with her sister, too.

Katelyn was cradling a steaming mug of coffee, looking more tired than she remembered. They were sitting on their parents’ back veranda, a cozy spot that held countless memories of their childhood.

“Sometimes, I envy you,” Katelyn said, her voice tinged with exhaustion.

Eden raised an eyebrow. “Envy me? Why?”

Katelyn sighed, running a hand through her disheveled hair. “You have so much freedom. The project I’m doing at work is consuming all my time. I hardly see the kids. Anthony is amazing, but he’s doing almost everything—taking them to school, their activities, managing the house. I feel like I’m missing out on their lives.”

Eden felt a pang of sympathy. “I didn’t realize it was that bad.”

“It’s not bad, exactly,” Katelyn said, shaking her head. “But it’s hard. I feel like I’m failing as a mom. I miss their bedtime stories and the little moments that matter.”

Eden leaned back, staring at the sky, her thoughts drifting. “I guess I never thought about it that way. Being single has its perks, but it’s also lonely. You don’t have someone to come home to and share what’s going on in your life.”

Katelyn smiled faintly. “I know. I just... sometimes, I wish I could hit pause on work and just be with my family.”

Eden reached out, placing a hand on Katelyn’s. “You’re doing your best. Your kids know that and so does Anthony.”

Katelyn squeezed Eden’s hand, a tear escaping down her cheek. “Thank you. I needed to hear that.”

They sat in silence for a moment, the sounds of the city mingling with Katelyn and Jessie’s children playing inside. Eden’s mind wandered to her own life—her career, meeting Steve, and the quiet evenings she spent with him and Rex.

She glanced over at Katelyn, noticing the familiar spark of curiosity in her sister’s eyes. She knew what was coming next.

“So, what’s going on with you and Steve?” Katelyn asked, tilting her head slightly. “Mom said it’s pretty serious.”

Eden felt a warmth spread through her chest. “Steve is amazing, Katelyn. I really think he’s the one.”

Her sister’s eyebrows rose. “Are you sure about that? You haven’t known him for long.”

Eden nodded, her smile widening. “I know, but he’s supportive, kind, and he just gets me. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before.”

Katelyn studied Eden’s face, searching for any doubt. “That’s wonderful. But are you really sure? I just don’t want to see you get hurt again.”

Eden took a deep breath, appreciating her sister’s concern. “I’m sure. I know it’s a big step, but I feel ready for it. Steve has been so understanding, especially with everything that’s happened.”

Katelyn’s expression softened. “Speaking of that, how’s your PTSD? Has living in Sapphire Bay helped you?”

Eden looked down, her fingers tracing the edge of her coffee mug. “It’s been a process, but Sapphire Bay has been good for me. The peaceful environment, the supportive community—it’s all helped a lot. I haven’t had any panic attacks since I’ve been there and I’m sleeping so much better.”

Katelyn squeezed Eden’s hand gently. “I’m glad to hear that. You deserve some peace and happiness.”

Eden felt a lump in her throat, grateful for Katelyn’s unwavering support. “Thanks, Kate. It means a lot to hear you say that.”

Katelyn smiled, her eyes filled with warmth. “Anytime, sis. Just remember, whatever happens with Steve, and no matter where life takes you, you’ve got your family behind you.”

Tears pricked at the corners of Eden’s eyes. “I know. And that makes all the difference.”

A loud shout came from inside the house and Katelyn turned to Eden. “That sounds like Gabby. I’d better see what’s happening.”

Eden picked up their coffee mugs. “I’ll come with you. And Kate…” Her sister turned around. “Call me if you need someone to talk to. Life’s too short to be unhappy.”

Katelyn sent Eden a sad smile. “I will. Don’t tell Mom and Dad how I’m feeling. I need to think about what I’m doing next before I talk to them.”

“I won’t say anything,” Eden promised. She just hoped Katelyn would be okay. Feeling lost and overwhelmed was something Eden understood, and they weren’t nice feelings.