The new apartment smelled faintly of fresh paint and lemon cleaner. Sunlight streamed through the balcony doors, warming the hardwood floors. It wasn’t luxurious, but it was clean, bright, and—most importantly—safe. Sebastian had spent the entire morning arranging the furniture so his mother would feel comfortable the moment she stepped inside.
Cecilia entered first.
Her eyes widened, and a soft smile spread across her face. “Oh, Sebastian… it’s simply beautiful. Much much better than the last place.”
The relief that washed over him was immediate. “I’m glad you like it, Ma.”
She walked slowly through the living room, touching the back of the new couch, admiring the espresso‑colored coffee table, peeking into the kitchen where the new stove and fridge gleamed. “It feels like a home.”
S
