Rescued by Darkness

Turning One

The sun hung lazily in the sky, casting a golden glow over the sprawling backyard of the D'Angelo family vacation home. A soft breeze rustled the leaves of the trees, and the air smelled of fresh flowers and freshly cut grass. The backyard had been transformed for the occasion: bright ribbons fluttered in the trees, tables were adorned with colorful flowers and an array of gifts stacked beside a soft, pastel-colored birthday cake. It was a picture of calm and serenity, a stark contrast to the violence and danger that had been their reality for so long.

Alessia stood near the table, her hands gently smoothing the tablecloth as she looked around. She could feel the weight of the moment—a heavy, beautiful milestone. Her baby girl, Luciana, was turning one. It felt like it had happened too fast. It seemed like just yesterday she had been a fragile infant, a little girl who was still learning to trust the world around her. But today, Luciana was an energetic, curious toddler, exploring her surroundings with a smile that could light up the darkest corners of their world.

Lorenzo stood beside her, his large hand resting on her shoulder as he, too, gazed out at their daughter. His eyes softened with a quiet pride as he watched Luciana chase after Xander, her tiny steps full of determination. "She's growing too fast," he muttered, his voice thick with emotion.

Alessia chuckled softly. "I know. It's like I blinked, and she went from being that tiny baby to a little girl full of life. I can hardly keep up."

Lorenzo smiled, the lines of tension around his mouth easing just a little. It wasn't often that he allowed himself these moments, moments where he could let go of the weight of the world and simply be a father. A husband. But today, today was different. Today was about family. About celebrating the beautiful little girl who had transformed their lives in more ways than they could count.

Alessia's eyes softened as she watched Luciana toddle toward the group of her brothers. Her tiny hands were reaching out as she giggled, a happy sound that filled the air like music. She was growing so quickly, and yet Alessia knew it was impossible to hold onto every fleeting moment. All she could do was cherish them.

Luciana's brothers were scattered across the backyard, each one lost in their own way of celebrating the day. Nico and Xander were engaged in a game of catch, their laughter carrying over the yard as they tossed a ball back and forth. Leo was nearby, sitting on the grass, reading a book to Mason and Cassio, who had their backs against a tree, listening intently. The twins, always playful and full of energy, were laughing and chatting with each other, throwing in occasional jokes to lighten the atmosphere.

But when Luciana tottered toward them, her arms outstretched as she called to them with her small voice, their attention shifted immediately. All of them, in their own way, had been captivated by her from the very first moment they laid eyes on her. And now, a year later, she had become the center of their world.

"She's walking so well," Leo commented, his voice filled with admiration as he stood up to guide her toward the table where the cake was set.

Alessia smiled warmly at her son's enthusiasm. Leo had always been the first to step up when help was needed, and he was so gentle with Luciana. He had a way of understanding her needs, even when she couldn't express them herself. It was clear from the way he doted on her that he was already falling into the role of protector.

"She's determined," Alessia said softly. "Nothing seems to stop her."

Lorenzo chuckled beside her, his large hand resting on her back, fingers splayed across her waist. "She's stubborn. A little too much like her mother," he teased with a grin.

Alessia rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips. "You love it. Don't lie."

"I do," he said, his expression softening. "I wouldn't change a thing."