Chapter 6 - Building a Home
The adoption process took time, but for Valerie and Lila, the bond had already been sealed long before the paperwork was finalized.
That spring, they spent weekends transforming the guest room into Lila’s bedroom. Together, they painted the walls a soft lilac color, hung fairy lights around the window, and filled a large bookshelf with stories of adventure and magic.
One afternoon, while picking out new curtains at a local shop, Lila reached up and tucked her hand into Valerie’s.
"Ms. Kincaid?" Lila asked softly.
"Yes, Lila?"
"Can I call you Mom?"
Valerie stopped in the middle of the aisle, feeling a sudden wave of warmth swell in her chest. She knelt down, looking into Lila’s bright, clear eyes—eyes that no longer held the dark shadow of fear.
"I would be honored, sweetie," Valerie said, her voice thick with emotion. "I would love that more than anything."
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On a bright, sunny morning in June, the adoption was formally finalized at the county courthouse. The judge handed Lila her new birth certificate, stamped with her new name: Lila Kincaid.
To celebrate, Valerie took Lila to the park near their home. As Lila ran toward the swing set, her ponytail bouncing in the warm breeze, Valerie watched her soar high into the air, laughing freely against the clear blue sky.
