The evening settled into a peaceful calm, the weight of secrets lifted, replaced by a comforting sense of unity. As Evelyn saw her parents off, she felt a mixture of relief and gratitude. Hugging her mother first, she held Claire tightly as her mother whispered reassurance: "You're stronger than you know, Evelyn. We're always here for you." Evelyn nodded, her voice thick with emotion. "Thank you, Mom. I don't know what I would have done without you tonight."

Claire smiled warmly, stepping aside for Eric. Evelyn's father embraced her strongly, his familiar cologne mingling with the comforting scent of home. He held her longer than usual, his hands gently rubbing her back.

"I'm so proud of you, Evelyn," Eric said softly, pulling back slightly to meet her gaze. His eyes were full of affection and pride. "And Samantha… she's a wonderful little girl. I can't wait to get to know her better and spend more time with her. She's just as amazing as her mother."

Evelyn smiled, fighting back tears. "She's going to love spending time with you, Dad. Thank you for coming."

Eric kissed her forehead gently, a gesture that evoked childhood memories—a kiss that once solved all her worries. "Take care of yourself, Evelyn. And if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call us."

With a final hug and wave, Evelyn watched her parents drive away. Their taillights disappeared around the corner, leaving her alone in the quiet parking lot, the cool evening air against her skin.

Turning back inside, she felt a renewed sense of determination. The conversation with her parents had been difficult but necessary. She wasn't alone in this battle—she had their support, and Derek and Rayna's too.

Inside, she headed to Samantha's room, where Derek would be. Her steps were light but purposeful. Pausing at the slightly ajar door, she heard soft voices and peeked inside.

Derek sat on the edge of Samantha's bed, holding a book. Samantha, eyes wide with fascination, snuggled under her blankets, listening intently as he read. But it wasn't the words that held Evelyn's attention—it was the following conversation.

"Daddy, I'm so happy you're here," Samantha whispered, her voice filled with joy. "I always wanted a daddy to read me bedtime stories."

Derek's heart melted. He closed the book gently and looked at her with a tender smile.

"I'm happy to be here too, baby. I'll read you as many bedtime stories as you want every night."

Evelyn's heart swelled. The bond between Derek and Samantha was everything she'd hoped for. She quietly withdrew, leaving them to their moment, and went to the kitchen.

Maya was cleaning up after dinner. The faint scent of the meal and the clinking of dishes were the only sounds. Evelyn hesitated in the doorway, unsure how to begin the conversation they needed to have.

"Maya," Evelyn finally said, entering the room.

Maya looked up, surprised but smiling as she set down a dish.

"Yes, Evelyn?"

Evelyn took a deep breath, leaning against the counter.

"I know these past few days have been confusing. And I think you deserve to know what's happening. So, tomorrow, after Samantha leaves for school, I'll explain everything. You've been here for us through so much, and I don't want to keep you in the dark."

Maya's expression softened, relief and curiosity evident in her eyes. "I have been wondering, but I didn't want to pry. I appreciate you telling me."

Evelyn nodded, feeling responsible towards Maya, who was more than a nanny—she was family. "I promise I'll explain it all. But for now, let's finish up here."

They worked together in comfortable silence, washing dishes and tidying. The kitchen was spotless, and Evelyn felt a sense of calm. Excusing herself, she went to her bedroom and showered, the warm water soothing her tense muscles. The evening's events played in her mind, but instead of anxiety, she felt closure and hope.

Just as she stepped from the shower, towel-wrapped, there was a knock. Evelyn's heart skipped a beat; she knew who it was.

"Come in," she called, a shy smile playing on her lips as Derek entered and closed the door.

He grinned, eyes twinkling. "It seems one of us is always seeing the other in a towel."

Evelyn giggled, warmth spreading through her at his playful tone. "Don't remind me."

His grin softened into a tender smile as he stepped closer. "I need to leave now, but…"

Before he could finish, Evelyn kissed him, a gesture filled with gratitude and something deeper. Derek's surprise melted into a grin as he pulled back slightly.

"What was that for?" he asked, his voice low and teasing. "Are you trying to seduce me again?"

Evelyn laughed softly, shaking her head. "No… well, maybe. But mostly, I was thanking you. For standing up for me earlier. For making me speak up for myself. My dad was quite shocked."

Derek's eyes softened as he tucked a damp strand of hair behind her ear. "Well, I came to tell you that you did great tonight. You were wonderful, Eve."

Evelyn's heart fluttered. "And it was because you were there. By the way, about the clip you showed them earlier… I really didn't think you were trying to find me all those years."

Derek's gaze grew serious as he gently lifted her chin. "I was. From the moment I saw you, I knew I had to find you again. I fell in love with you at first sight."

Evelyn's eyes widened, blushing. "At what point while I was crying did you fall for me? Don't tell me you have a fetish for crying ladies?" she asked playfully, trying to hide her embarrassment.

Derek laughed. "Maybe I do," he teased, his hand brushing her cheek. "But I'm glad you came back to the hotel room with me that day. I'm glad we both did something so dumb."

Evelyn rolled her eyes, smiling. "I don't know what I was thinking. In retrospect, that was a very stupid thing to do."

Derek's expression softened as he cupped her face. "I don't know what I was thinking either, but I'm glad we both did."

He leaned in and kissed her deeply. For a moment, they were lost in each other. When he pulled back, his breath was ragged, his eyes dark with desire.

"I should leave now. If we continue this, I'm going to make love to you," he said, his voice husky.

Evelyn's heart raced. "What if I want you to?" she whispered.

"Are you sure?" Derek asked, and she nodded.

"I'm sure."

He scooped her into his arms, carrying her to the bed with urgency and tenderness. He laid her down gently, his hands and lips exploring her with reverence.

As they made love, their connection deepened in ways words couldn't express. It was more than the physical act—it was the culmination of years of longing, unspoken feelings, and the love that had blossomed despite obstacles. They moved together as if meant to be, their bodies and souls entwined.

When it was over, they lay in each other's arms, breathing slowing returning to normal. Derek kissed her forehead, pulling her closer.

"I love you," he whispered, the words filled with emotion. "I always will."

Evelyn smiled, a tear slipping down her cheek—not of sadness, but of overwhelming happiness. She didn't say the words back, and Derek didn't pressure her. He waited until she slept before leaving.