Chapter 9: The Veteran’s Garden
As spring bloomed, Daniel turned his attention to the overgrown backyard. He rented a tiller, turning up the rich, dark soil that had been neglected for nearly a year.
With Maya toddling behind him carrying a plastic watering can, Daniel planted rows of tomatoes, bell peppers, and sunflowers. Working the soil gave his hands a purpose that had nothing to do with weapons or defense.
Clara watched from the kitchen window, leaning against the counter with a warm mug in her hands. For months, she had carried the emotional weight of their home alone, praying for the day her husband's laughter would return.
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When Daniel caught her watching, he wiped dirt from his brow and waved, his eyes bright with a spark she hadn't seen since before his deployment.
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