"Tell me everything," Iva said, her eyes fixed on Lori. "How are you? How's Attia? How's life at the ranch?"
Lori laughed.
"It's... peaceful," she said. "Strange, after everything. But good. Attia is good. We're happy."
Iva's eyes softened.
"I'm so glad," she said. "You deserve this. Both of you."
Meriem watched them, her heart aching with a strange, unfamiliar feeling. It took her a moment to recognize it.
Hope.
She had forgotten what it felt like.
Iva turned to her, her smile warm.
"Meriem," she said. "I know this is overwhelming. I know you've been through so much. But I want you to know—you are welcome here. For as long as you need. Forever, if you want."
Meriem's throat tightened.
"I don't know what to say," she whispered. "I don't—I've never had anyone—"
"Say yes," Lori i
