Chapter 11 - The Garden Steps
The afternoon sun poured over the manicured green lawns of the Caldwell estate, illuminating blooming rose bushes and sparkling marble fountains.
On the paved garden walkway, seven-year-old Noah stood without his padded forearm crutches.
Wearing a bright yellow polo shirt and blue shorts, his legs were strong, healthy, and steady on the stone path.
Claire sat on a wooden garden bench twenty feet away, her brunette hair flowing in soft waves, wearing a pretty light pink summer dress instead of her old maid uniform. Beside her sat Ethan, wearing a relaxed white linen shirt and dark trousers.
“Ready, Dad? Watch this!” Noah called out with a joyful giggle.
Noah took a step forward. Then another. Then another.
He didn't just walk—he jogged across the stone path, his small feet moving easily until he threw himself into his father’s open arms!
Ethan lifted his son high into the air, laughing with a pure, unrestrained happiness that filled the entire estate.
“Fourteen steps!” Noah cheered, hugging his father’s neck tightly. “I ran, Dad!”
“You were amazing, buddy,” Ethan said, setting him down gently and kissing his forehead. “Go show Arthur your new soccer ball.”
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As Noah ran off toward the butler near the fountain, Ethan sat back down beside Claire on the bench.
👉 He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small black velvet box.
