Damian burst into the stadium, a whirlwind of energy replacing the shy boy Isabella remembered. The artificial stars sparked a genuine smile – his first in a year. Isabella's heart ached; she felt she'd failed him.

Adrian watched, his gaze flitting between Damian's joy and Isabella's tears. Panic seized him. "What's wrong?" he stammered.

Isabella quickly dabbed her eyes, her composure returning. "Fine," she said flatly. Adrian, unsure, reached for her hand; she shrugged him off, turning back to the spectacle. He clenched his fist, remembering her fleeting touch. He wouldn't rush her.

"Mom, that star!" Damian yelled, tugging at Isabella's hand. Adrian trailed behind, snapping photos for the family group chat.

Minutes later, phones buzzed. Patrick and Debra, Stacey reading a bedtime story, Bryce, and even a grumpy Charlie – all saw the pictures. Relief washed over Patrick and Debra; Stacey smiled; even Charlie couldn't deny his happiness for Adrian.

That night, the photos circulated, melting away anxieties. The next morning, a convoy of luxury cars rolled up to Isabella's modest home. Neighbors watched as the Carter family, laden with gifts, ascended the steps.

Isabella opened the door to a throng of elegant people. Fear gripped her. Adrian, slightly amused by the scene, began introductions: his parents, Bryce and Charlie; his siblings, Becky, Lillian, Kevin… He hesitated at Hayden and Jeremy.

Hayden grinned, "Hi Isabella, I'm Hayden Hoggard, dating Becky. Future brother-in-law, maybe!" Jeremy piped up, "I'm Jeremy, and I want Becky to be my mom!"

Isabella, startled, quickly composed herself. "Hello, everyone. Come in."

Gifts were exchanged, Isabella feeling overwhelmed. Adrian smoothly took charge, placing them in her bedroom. Her hands trembled as she made coffee, worried about its simplicity.

Adrian calmly served, easing her anxiety. The guests accepted the coffee graciously.

Lillian and Kevin, finally meeting Damian, chased him around the house. Damian, shy, hid behind Isabella. Observing, Isabella studied Lillian and Kevin, remembering Becky's difficult past. Yet, these children were happy, confident, and utterly normal.

"Nice to meet you, Damian," Lillian chirped.

Kevin added, "Hi Damian! We're family now!"