---- Jessica leaned sweetly against Mom's arm, offering gentle words of comfort. Mom smiled. "You've always been so thoughtful, Jessica." Dad sighed heavily. "We can't keep hiding this forever. Your birthday is coming up. I'll make your identity public then." Jessica gasped with joy at his words. "And Rory too," Dad added. "It's time everyone knows he's part of both the Brown and Pelroy families." At the mention of Rory, a flicker of unease flashed across Jessica's face. She quickly masked it with concern and asked softly, " What if Kayla gets upset?" Dad huffed. "If she's upset about it, we'll make it up to her. You were the one who stayed with us and Samuel while she was unconscious all those years. Even if you don't get the credit, you've still done a lot. Mom had prepared a full spread to celebrate officially ---- making Jessica part of the family. Under the warm yellow lights, they sat around the table, smiling and laughing. It was just like the first time I saw them acting like a happy family behind my back. In the midst of their joy and laughter, I quietly slipped away. The last tear fell from the corner of my eye. It was a pity I couldn't say goodbye before leaving this world.