Chapter 8: Steps Forward

Lucas woke up to the soft hum of morning activity in the house. The smell of pancakes drifted through the air, mixing with the faint chatter of his new family. He wasn't used to waking up to this kind of warmth. For years, mornings had been quiet, heavy, and lonely. But now, there was life here.

After getting ready, he headed downstairs, where Mrs. Carter was setting plates on the table. Theo was already there, reaching for a plate with an eager grin. "Morning, sleepyhead," he greeted Lucas, pushing an extra pancake onto his plate.

Lucas sat down, hesitating for a moment before taking a bite. It was warm and sweet, the kind of food that made him feel something—something close to comfort. He glanced around the table, watching the Carters interact so effortlessly. They laughed, teased, and talked about their day ahead. Lucas listened, feeling like an observer rather than a participant. But for once, that didn't seem so bad.

At school, things were shifting in ways he hadn't expected. People were beginning to include him without hesitation. He wasn't invisible anymore. During class, Theo would nudge him whenever he looked lost. During lunch, Emily and Jake always left a space for him.

One afternoon, Theo dragged him to the library. "You need to pick a book for the reading assignment," Theo explained, scanning the shelves. "What do you like?"

Lucas blinked. "I don't know."

Theo tilted his head. "You've never had a favorite book?"

Lucas hesitated. "I used to like adventure stories."

Theo grinned. "Then let's find the best one."

As they searched, Lucas realized something—he wasn't just existing anymore. He was living, piece by piece, step by step.

That night, after finishing his homework, Lucas sat by the window, staring at the sky. The stars twinkled faintly, scattered like distant memories.

He still missed his parents. That ache hadn't vanished. But something had changed. It wasn't just pain anymore. It was hope.