"Daddy," Jonas mumbled sleepily, "When can we see Ms. Sommerton again?"

"We'll invite her when she's free, okay, son?" I whispered, tucking him back in.

The doorbell startled me after I'd closed Jonas's door. It was Ms. Harris, panicked. "Mr. Joplin, Momo's sick! All the vets are closed. Can you take us to the 24-hour emergency vet?"

I scribbled a note for Jonas and rushed Ms. Harris to the vet. Getting home near midnight, I collapsed onto the couch, remembering Lorraine's smile, Jonas's laughter, and that delicious picnic.

I texted Lorraine: "Thank you for today's picnic! Jonas loved it. Thinking of a beach trip – any suggestions?"

Then: "By the way, thinking about taking Jonas to the beach. Any suggestions?"

Lorraine's replies flooded in: "You're welcome! I had fun too! A beach vacation sounds perfect! I can help plan if you'd like. It's peak season though, booking might be tricky. I have a friend at a travel agency…"

"That would be great, thanks!" I replied.

"I love the beach! Especially the sunrises and sunsets – magical!" she texted back.

We chatted for hours, from travel plans to childhood memories. Just as the conversation heated up, Jonas stirred. "Goodnight," I told Lorraine, rushing to his room. He'd had a nightmare. Holding him, I realized our lives needed more joy and adventure.

The next morning, a message from Lorraine: she'd booked flights, a hotel, and created an itinerary! The doorbell rang. It was Lorraine, bearing breakfast for three.

"Good morning! Thought you might be busy," she smiled. "Hope I'm not intruding."

"Not at all! Thank you!" I said, inviting her in.

Jonas burst in, yelling, "Ms. Sommerton!"

We ate breakfast together, laughter filling the room. Watching Lorraine and Jonas, a warmth spread through me. This felt like a real family.

After breakfast, Lorraine offered to help clean. As we tidied, she turned serious. "If you don't mind… could I join you on the beach trip?"

I froze.