“Of course, sweetheart.” My heart swelled with relief. “I’ll be right here.”

Over the next few hours, we talked—really talked—about everything. It was a painful conversation, but Madison was strong. She was hurt but determined to move forward, and I was proud of her resilience.

In the end, I couldn’t protect her from everything, but I could support her as she rebuilt her life. The beach house was still standing, the waves crashing against the shore like they always had, a symbol of continuity amid chaos. And Madison, my brave, beautiful daughter, would find her footing again.

As for Trevor, he was gone—a shadow that had passed over our lives, leaving us a little wiser, a little stronger, and a lot more grateful for the things that truly mattered.