“Oh, they’re doing the play!” Sophia exclaimed, pointing toward a makeshift stage where children from the Institute were performing, their faces painted and costumes glittering under the festival lights.

Juniper spotted him immediately. “Look, there’s Tommy… he’s the one with the star!”

Daniel chuckled, leaning closer to avoid a passing crowd. “The very same Tommy who declared his undying love to you?” His voice carried a hint of teasing that eased something in her chest.

They watched as the children acted out their parts with endearing enthusiasm, Tommy’s voice carrying clearly across the square as he delivered his lines with impressive conviction for a little grader. The crowd around them swayed to the children’s song, parents recording on their devices, the moment perfect in its simplicity.