Bribe??

The warm morning sunlight poured through the windows, casting golden streaks across the breakfast table. The smell of toasted bread, scrambled eggs, and Elena's special cinnamon pancakes filled the air. Hope was humming as she drizzled too much syrup on her pancakes, and Asher was focused on stacking his toast like a tower. Daniel, still in his home robe, stirred his tea, while Elena wiped Asher's mouth and took her seat beside him.

Miles sat across the table, dressed in a black T-shirt and loose joggers, casual for once, though his posture still carried the quiet discipline of someone who had lived in war zones. He was watching his family—really watching—absorbing every second.

Then he spoke, his voice gentle yet purposeful. "Mom... have you ever thought about getting a new house?"